Wood Farm Cottages, Norfolk
Child Friendly Cottages Norfolk, Wood Farm, Melton Constable
They say that the best things in life are worth waiting for, and in the case of my visit to Wood Farm this was definitely true! Having had to postpone my visit earlier in the year, we finally arrived on a sunny autumn afternoon to be greeted by the lovely host Diana who has been running the self catering apartments for over seventeen years.
The location is stunning! And we couldn't have asked for a warmer welcome. Set in a secluded five acre site in the heart of rural Norfolk, we immediately felt a wave of tranquillity come over us as we stepped out of the car.
The Child Friendly Cottages
The eight beautiful cottages each converted from traditional Norfolk flint barns each sleep a family of 2-6 per cottage. Each one has been lovingly restored to create a warm, stylish feel, whilst maintaining many of the original features. We were staying in Oak - a spacious and attractive cottage, with a lovely view overlooking the fabulous gardens and much to my three year old son Sebastian's delight a monkey puzzle tree in our bit of the garden! We immediately felt at home. The cottage has two spacious bedrooms (one double and a twin) and a very spacious kitchen dining area. It was lovely and warm and just the place to relax.
Diana had provided lots of books, toys, puzzles and games for rainy days along with internet for those who just can't bear to leave their laptops at home. She has even made it possible to download a wide selection of films. So no excuse for getting bored. However there was far too much to explore outside so as Grandma put the kettle on in the fabulous kitchen (wish my one at home was as nice!), Sebastian and I headed out to investigate.
Facilities at Wood Farm
The gardens surrounding the cottages are amazing and just perfect for children! Masses of space to just run around, a great play area including a trampoline, a ‘hidey' den, swings, slide, football area, trees to climb and the highlight - a zip wire slide which proved to be most popular over the weekend.
Although pets are welcome in some of the cottages, Diana doesn't allow dogs on the play area. Mind you our four legged friends aren't missing out as there are miles of lovely walks to be taken right on the doorstep.
There is also a barn area with table tennis and pool etc, so plenty to keep older kids amused as well.
Each cottage has it's own little outside area with patio furniture to sit and enjoy a drink, whilst taking in the peace and quiet (apart from the occasional shrieks of delight from the kids on the zip wire!), and although there are eight cottages all together you still enjoy a great deal of privacy.
The other families staying at Wood Farm were a lovely crowd and all eager to tell me just how much they adored the place. I spoke to two families who had been coming for fifteen years, and couldn't stop raving about the place, and how wonderful it is, which is a testament to Diana and all the hard work and love she has put into her business over the years.
Much to Sebastian's delight he was soon to find a friend as four year old Freddy who was on holiday here for the week introduced himself. The two spent ages bouncing on the trampoline and getting very muddy on the zip slide as Freddy's Grandpa told me all about Wood Farm and why he and his family visit each year. That night (after we managed to drag Sebastian away from his new friend!) we dined on some lovely local produce bought from a terrific farm shop not far from Holt, and headed to bed - sleeping like babies.
Things for Families to Do and Visit in Norfolk
The next day after more zip slide action before breakfast we headed off to the gorgeous Blakeney Quay for some crabbing! Definitely the most popular and free pastime for youngsters. Blakeney is a charming seaside village situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty. As we sat and enjoyed a cup of tea in the sunshine, overlooking the harbour I was sad that we were only here for a quick visit.
One of the best things about Wood Farm is the sheer amount of things to do on its doorstep. North Norfolk is such a great destination for families. Amazing beaches, beautiful scenery, and what's more holidays like these don't have to cost you the earth. Just pack a picnic basket and head out to enjoy the area. In fact Diana has compiled a list of the top ten free things to do in the area (all tried and tested over the years by her many happy customers)
We left Wood Farm, sadly after just one night, feeling happy and relaxed, but desperately wanting to stay longer. This is one place we will return.
Many thanks to Nicola Shepheard and her family for visiting and reviewing Wood Farm for Away with the Kids
3 Offer(s) for Wood Farm Cottages
Special Offer - 10% off June cancellations
June 3rd -7th
Willow - sleeps 2 in double bedroom, and 2 in gallery (suitable for parents or some children)£250 for 4 nights (woodburner too)
June 8th - 15th:
Holly sleeps 4 now £395
Ash sleeps 5 in 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, now £418
Special Offer - 10% off late June
June 21st - 28th
Willow sleeps 2 and 2 in gallery £333
June 22nd - 29th
Holly sleeps 4/5 in 2 bedrooms now £396
Ash sleeps 5 in 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms now £419
Special Offer - 5% off early July vacancies
July 5th - 12th
Willow sleeps 2 plus 2 in gallery now £441
Rowan sleeps 4 in 2 bedrooms now £522
July 6th - 13th
Oak sleeps 4 in 2 bedrooms now £532
Holly sleeps 4/5 in 2 bedrooms now £532
Ash sleeps 5 in 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms now £555
Elm sleeps 5, no pets now £540