With Norfolk’s amazing wildlife, the serene beaches and the picturesque Broads right at your doorstep, Mill Farm offers you an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders of Norfolk’s wildlife. Whether you’re a dedicated nature enthusiast or just seeking a closer connection with the natural world, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during your stay.

Since relocating to this stunning region, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing some truly remarkable wildlife encounters, often by chance. Picture the barn owl silently gliding across the garden one peaceful evening last week or the determined grass snake leisurely swimming in front of our boat on the Broads last summer. These moments of connection with nature are what make your visit to Mill Farm special.

Embracing the Beauty of Nature in Norfolk

While I may not be a wildlife expert or a regular watcher, I firmly believe that we all benefit from a closer connection to the natural world. It’s an enriching experience for both adults and children.

An Inviting Stroll Through Norfolk’s Nature

The natural beauty of Norfolk is easily accessible through a short walk along the footpath directly from Mill Farm. Along this path, you’ll often spot kestrels hovering above our orchard, where we leave the grass to grow long, providing a habitat for mice and voles that sustain these magnificent birds.

During the autumn months, several bird species begin their migrations, preparing for the winter. The Broads are frequented by a variety of Scandinavian species during this season. In September, you may have the chance to see barred warblers, ortolan buntings, red-breasted flycatchers, red-backed shrikes, and wrynecks. October might bring sightings of the elusive pallas’s warbler, while November offers opportunities to spot the little auk.

Exploring Norfolk’s Amazing Wildlife

If you’re eager to embrace the wildlife while staying at Mill Farm, here are some of my top recommendations:

• Winterton-Horsey Dunes Nature Reserve: A short drive or walk from our property, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty boasts heathland, woodlands, sand dunes, and a little tern colony. You can also witness the mesmerizing seal colony at Horsey beach, where over 3000 baby seals are born between November and January.
• Ross’s Wildlife Tours: Departing from Horsey Mere on the Broads National Park, these boat trips run from Easter to October, and are led by the enthusiastic nature expert, Captain Ross. Explore the iconic Broads species, including the swallowtail butterfly, Norfolk hawker dragonfly, and marsh harriers. Dog Friendly.
• RSPB Strumpshaw Fen and Hickling Broad: Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s Hickling Broad, the largest of the Broads, is a year-round haven for wildlife, with unique species like common crane, bittern, marsh harrier, bearded tit, and Cetti’s warbler. This is not dog-friendly. Both nature reserves offer engaging activities for children during weekends and holidays too.

Boating in the Broads

The best way to experience the Broads National Park is by boat. Consider hiring an electric boat for a quieter and eco-friendly journey. Day boats are available from Martham and Potter Heigham. Or consider How Hill. If you’re visiting with children, don’t miss the family events at the marvelous How Hill Trust, set in beautiful gardens and woodlands. Booking is essential. You can also explore Toad Hole Cottage, a restored marshman’s home, and enjoy a short guided “Electric Eel” boat trip.

For those seeking a remarkable nature-watching experience Blackney Point is a must-visit destination. This shingle spit, located west of Cley and owned by the National Trust, boasts a diverse landscape of vegetated shingle, saltmarsh, and sand dunes. Accessible by a 3½ mile walk from Cley Beach car park, this area is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.

In conclusion, Mill Farm offers you a gateway to the mesmerizing world of Norfolk’s amazing wildlife. Connect with nature, make lasting memories, and explore the stunning landscapes that surround us. Our eco-conscious dog-friendly self-catering accommodations in Winterton on Sea, Norfolk, offering cozy stays for 2, 4, and 8 guests. For further information, please click here.

Fun Activities : Indoor Activities for Kids in Norfolk

You are on a self-catering holiday, and the weather isn’t quite what you imagined.

You have exhausted the games barn with table tennis, pool table and space to run around, and you have played with all the toys and board games in the barns. Then this is my advice for your wet weather options if you are staying with children.

Table of Contents

If you have young children

The obvious starting point is Great Yarmouth with its arcades and Sea life centre (book online for a better deal). It has a cute little soft play area too. Just around the corner, there is the Jump Warehouse which runs really reasonable sessions for under 5’s most weekdays, but adults have to jump too! Best to call them in advance to see what’s available. 

Wroxham Barns is also a great option. Their junior farm is a lovely day out for young children – feeding lambs, cuddling guinea pigs and milking a fake cow are on offer, and their little soft play is really lovely and ideal for kids 1 -5. There is also a selection of nice shops and cafés, particularly useful if you have grandparents in tow.

If you have older kids

In Yarmouth, there is swimming at the marina centre, roller skating (with a roller disco) at Retro skate, a permanent circus at the Hippodrome and, of course, the jump warehouse. Friends have also recommended the indoor golf (the only indoor crazy golf in the country, apparently) at Hollywood Indoor Adventure Golf at the old windmill theatre. The stock car racing and dogs at the Great Yarmouth Stadium have proved popular with guests and friends. 

You can also head to Norwich for the day and check out the shops (head to the lanes for the independent shops, the old medieval town, the castle with an amazing keep, or as we now do regularly, watch a ‘kids club’ film at the Odeon cinema at the Riverside (get your carpark ticket stamped, for 4 hours free parking).

If your kids like museums, you could try the lovely Time and Tide museum in Yarmouth (my favourite museum in the town), or head to Cromer for their charming  ‘Henry Blog’ lifeboat museum and then have a little look around the cute town.

Your Ultimate Guide : Top 12 Best Dog Walks in Norfolk

Planning on bringing your four-legged friend along to Norfolk with you? Norfolk is a fantastic location for dog walking, showcasing the best in countryside and coast. The county boasts an array of fantastic dog-friendly walks backed by spectacular scenery; with miles upon miles of gorgeous countryside, the Broads, and coastal beaches to explore.

Mill Farm Eco Barn is situated in the picturesque village of Winterton-on-Sea on the East Norfolk Coast. We are just 10 minutes walk from the wonderful dog friendly Winterton-on-Sea beach and the amazing seal colony at Horsey. There are numerous other fantastic walks right on our doorstep. Check out the best dog walks in Norfolk below.

Dog-Friendly Beaches

Norfolk features some of the best dog friendly beaches in the whole of the UK. With a beautiful, unspoilt coastline spanning nearly 100 miles, the Norfolk coast is the ideal place to bring your dog for an enjoyable walk.

Winterton-on-Sea Beach is just 10 minutes’ walk from our barns, and they allow dogs all year round. This beautiful stretch of golden sand makes up part of the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is also a national nature reserve. The beach is never that busy, even during the summer!

The gorgeous sandy beach at Horsey is just 10 minutes’ drive away, providing the most scenic setting for a dog walk. Horsey Beach is best known for its seals in the winter months, but it is also great for dog walking. However, dogs must be kept on the lead under control during seal pupping season.

Sea Palling & Waxham is well worth a visit with your faithful companion. Drive just 15 minutes to reach this beautiful Blue Flag beach, best experienced at low tide. Sea Palling permits dogs in the winter months, but there are restrictions in the summer; whereas Waxham allows dogs all year round.

If you’re willing to venture a bit further afield, Happisburgh Beach boasts miles of wonderful coastal paths to explore. Travel just 30 minutes to reach this beautiful and historical beach, making up part of Norfolk’s Deep History Coast. This peaceful and quiet beach allows dogs all year round. It has a lovely children’s playground at the beach car park, complete with a zip wire. You can also visit the famous red and white Happisburgh lighthouse, the oldest working light in East Anglia.

Walks that Set Tails Wagging

Here in Norfolk, there are abundant scenic walking routes for you and your four-legged friend to enjoy. Whether you prefer a slow stroll on the lead or an energetic lead-free run, there’s something for everyone in our gorgeous county.

The Horsey Beach & Village Circular Walk takes you to Horsey Beach (famous for its seals) and Horsey village, as well as the Windpump and the edge of Martham Broad. Beginning at Horsey Windpump car park just 7 minute’s drive away from our barns, this walk combines beautiful coastline and rugged broad land for the most unique dog walking adventure. It has a pub stop too at the lovely Nelson Head.  This is easily one of our favourite Norfolk Dog walks. Be warned though, it’s really wet underfoot in Winter.

We love this Norfolk Broads-based Dog walk around How Hill and St Bennet’s Abbey.   This 7-mile walk takes in How Hill, one of the most delightful places on the Broads, as well as the amazing ruins at St Bennet’s. How Hill has a cafe in the summer months, and it is a delightful place to explore with your dog with its secret garden, marsh man museum, and house gardens (check to see if they are open).

Waxham to Sea Palling – is another favourite coastal walk that starts in the tiny hamlet of Waxham. You can walk north to the little village of Sea Palling along the back of the Dunes and then head back south along the beach. You can continue to Horsey if you fancy making this a 7-mile walk, or cut it in half and just head for a cup of tea and delicious cake at the Dunes cafe. There are also some food options in Sea Palling. 

The Horning Circular trail passes through the stunning Norfolk countryside and the idyllic village of Horning – a great location for a doggie visit. Travel just 25 minutes to reach Horning and enjoy an unforgettable walk with your faithful companion.

Burgh Castle is well worth a visit if you’re looking for a unique, scenic walk. Jump in the car and drive 30 minutes to reach the remains of a third-century Roman fort, offering the most outstanding views over Breydon Water. Please note that dogs must be kept on a lead at all times.

Travel 30 minutes to reach the stunning 40-acre Salhouse Broad (part of the Broads Executive Area), which is open all year round. This outstandingly beautiful area is surrounded by wonderful woodlands and wildlife, providing a peaceful and tranquil setting for a dog walk.

The Bittern Railway Line is great for an energetic dog walk. Drive 30 minutes to the Bure Valley Railway and embark upon this 5.8-mile adventurous route, passing through the brilliant Broads and meandering River Bure. A great opportunity to exercise both you and your dog!

Happisburgh is a great location for either a quick circular walk or a longer walk taking in the coastal path. For a short walk, drop down to the beach and head south. After half a mile or so, you can walk up to the cliff top near some houses. You can head inland quickly from here, passing a World War 2 pill box. Follow a field margin footpath that skirts around the field adjacent to the lighthouse and back to the car park and play area.  There is also a longer walk 7 mile walk.

Pawsome Pubs & Cafés

At the end of a long walk, there’s nothing better than a quick bite to eat in a traditional inn or quirky café. All the following eateries are dog-friendly – so there’s no need to leave your four-legged friend behind!

The Fisherman’s Return is our local dog-friendly pub, just 10 minutes’ walk away from our barns. They serve quality food and offer a great selection of local beers and ales.

Poppylands is just 10 minutes’ drive away in Horsey. This 1940s themed café serves hot drinks, afternoon tea and light lunch options; permitting dogs in their upstairs area.

The Nelson Head is also situated in the pretty village of Horsey. This traditional country pub serves fantastic food, with a terrific beer garden to enjoy a lovely local beverage or two.

Dunes Café Waxham Barn is well worth a visit. They serve great locally sourced food and are well known for their breakfasts, lunches, delicious homemade cakes, and seaside treats.

Bridgestones of Potter is just 15 minutes’ away in the pretty village of Potter Higham. This family run café with a lovely garden offers tasty homecooked food options. Their gourmet burgers are delicious. 

Our Delightful Dog Friendly Norfolk Coastal Cottages

Here at Mill Farm Eco Barns, we know that dogs are part of the family, too; that’s why we pride ourselves on being 100% dog friendly. Threshing Barn and Grain Barn welcome up to 2 well-behaved dogs to join you during your spectacular Norfolk staycation. Whilst our one bedroom Hay Barn can take up to 2 dogs (more on some occasions).

Click here to book your dog friendly stay at Mill Farm today!

Norfolk is a county steeped in history and heritage. Us East Anglians are proud of our unique and varied heritage, revealed in our wide range of historical sites. From captivating castles and amazing abbeys to splendid stately homes and gorgeous gardens, there’s always something to discover here in east Norfolk.

Calling all history buffs! We have collated a list of the best things to see in Norfolk, including local castles, abbeys, and stately homes – so you can spend less time researching and more time exploring…

Captivating Castles

Become King or Queen of the castle for the day here in Norfolk. Our impressive portfolio of historical buildings features castles, abbeys and priories of all shapes and sizes; from complete buildings to fascinating ancient ruins…

Norwich Castle is well worth a visit if you’re planning on seeing the ‘city of stories’. Built as a royal palace over 900 years ago by the order of William the Conqueror, the castle positively dominates the city’s skyline. It is now home to a fantastic museum and amazing art collection, as well as some scary dungeons and battle re-enactments. A must see!

Medieval Norwich was the largest and wealthiest provincial city in England, outside of London and in the summer of 1549 Norwich was the centre of the Kett’s rebellion. Paul Dickinson offers fascinating walking tours around Norwich including a 2-hour guided walking tour celebrating CJ Sansom’s best-selling novel Tombland, featuring Tudor lawyer Matthew Shardlake’s visit to Norwich at the time of Kett’s Rebellion. If you haven’t read the book it doens’t matter, the tour focuses on the history, taking in the best medieval architecture in Norwich and ends in a climb up to Kett’s Heights with its fabulous view across the city.

Paul offers over 20 walks in and around Norwich on subjects such as a Norwich: A Black History or Norwich on the Dark Side which looks at crime, punishment, filth, and misery! 

Burgh Castle dates all the way back to the 3^rd Century, built as part of the Roman collection of coastal defences. Three of its imposing stone walls are still intact, with one falling mercy to the marshy Breydon waters some time ago. The surrounding area is a wildlife haven, offering panoramic views over Breydon Water. We highly recommend completing the Burgh Castle circular walk during your visit.

Caister Castle was one of the earliest important buildings in England to be built by brick, beginning its journey way back in 1146. This moated castle features a dramatic 100-foot tower that is open to visitors, offering panoramic views of the amazing castle ruins and surrounding area.

Amazing Abbeys & Priories

St Benet’s Abbey is situated on the north bank of the meandering River Bure in the heart of the Norfolk Broads. As the only abbey in Britain not to be taken over by Henry VIII, the ruins of the abbey’s fascinating gatehouse stand tall beside a stunning 18^th Century windmill. An annual service takes place in the ruins of the church by the Bishop of Norwich. You can also walk here from my favourite place in east Norfolk, How Hill.

Discover the remains of a 13^th Century priory at St Olave’s, nestled beside the meandering River Waveney. Established by Augustinian friars in 1216, the striking brick-vaulted refectory was briefly a cottage before falling into disuse once again. We highly recommend taking a stroll around the lovely village of St Olave’s during your visit to the priory.

Bromholm Priory is one of Norfolk’s hidden gems. Established in 1113 by Cluniac Monks, the priory quickly became one of England’s most sacred places – it was rumoured to house a piece of the Holy Cross, which attracted pilgrims from near and afar. Perched upon private farmland, the remains of the gatehouse and the priory are a sight to behold.

Splendid Stately Homes

If you delve into Norfolk’s past, you will discover a whole host of rich landowners and stately homes; many of which were built following England’s successful wool trade with the rest of Europe. Explore our wonderful county and discover our very own Downton Abbeys…

National Trust property Felbrigg Hall covers a whopping 1,760 acres, featuring a gorgeous country house, walled garden, and extensive parkland boasting acres of woods and walking trails. Step inside the elegant 17^th Century manor house and discover numerous delights; from the great hall’s stunning stained-glass windows, to the mandarin statues in the Chinese bedroom.

Hoveton Hall is perched upon the edge of the Norfolk Broads, with 620 acres of parkland, gardens, woodland, and grazing land to explore. Built in the early 1800s, the estate has been owned by the Buxton family since 1946. If you visit between April and September, you can discover a fantastic array of flora and fauna in the hall’s stunning gardens.

Wolverton Hall is one of the four grand ‘power houses’ in Norfolk, dating back to the 18^th Century. The house was built by Horatio, the brother of Britain’s first Prime Minister, Sir Robert Walpole, and has a fascinating history. Admire fascinating collections and artefacts in the house, before heading out and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Somerleyton Hall is one of the finest Victorian stately homes in the UK, set in the heart of the Broads National Park. Experience history, romance and sophistication in this well-preserved stately home and walled garden. The garden features a wonderful array of ornate peach cages and greenhouses, as well as one of the best yew hedge mazes in England.

East Ruston Old Vicarage is a spectacular 32-acre modern garden, transformed from unremarkable farmland into one of Norfolk’s best kept secrets. Enter another world as you wander around the many themed “garden rooms”, including the herbaceous borders, sunken rose garden, large woodland garden, Mediterranean garden, and the Arizonian-inspired Desert Wash area. It has a great tearoom too!

Searching for a group getaway on the Norfolk coast? The Threshing Barn is one of our three luxury self-catering holiday accommodations situated in the heart of the notorious Norfolk countryside. Our spectacular contemporary barn conversion has been renovated to an exceptionally high standard, sleeping up to 8 guests across 4 large bedrooms.

The Threshing Barn provides the perfect base for a group getaway or a large family reunion. Here’s why…

The Enchanting Threshing Barn

The Threshing Barn sleeps eight people (plus infants) across four bedrooms and four bathrooms. With a stunning contemporary interior, you can experience open-plan living with a modern twist; designed for maximum comfort and luxury.

The Barn boasts a huge open plan kitchen with a separate dining room and large living area. The spacious, well-equipped kitchen has all appliances and utensils supplied, giving you the freedom to cook the dinner of your dreams. Step into the bright and airy lounge and admire the vaulted ceilings and exposed brickwork. With comfortable seating for 8 around a rustic wood burning stove, a large flat screen TV and a home cinema system, you will find everything you need for a relaxing UK staycation. Throw open the wide bi-fold doors and escape to your private, enclosed south-facing courtyard garden; with the BBQ and outdoor seating area making the space ideal for a spot of alfresco dining.

The 3 spacious bedrooms can be arranged as either king-sized doubles or twins, with 1 additional twin bedroom. Windmill (the master bedroom) features a huge show stopping super-king bed, with French doors leading out onto an idyllic Juliette balcony – at the end of a long day exploring the sights and sounds of Norfolk, you can enjoy watching the sun set with a glass of champagne (or two!) from your own balcony area. There is also a contemporary family bathroom upstairs with a double-ended bath, separate shower, WC, and wash basin.

Accessible for All

The Threshing Barn is 100% accessible for all. The downstairs living room, wet room, bedroom, kitchen, and outdoor area are all wheelchair friendly; situated on one level and free from steps or stairs. The barn is accessed via a ramp, with wide doorways and plenty of space for wheelchair users. There is a designated car park opposite with space for 5 cars, connected to the barn with a concrete path. The path is designed to get wheelchair users from their cars to the barns and the games barn, allowing them to access all areas.

Here at Mill Farm, we are proud to be totally dog-friendly, welcoming up to 2 well-behaved dogs in the barn (just ask if you want to bring 3!) We charge £15 per dog per stay, and provide dog bowls and treats on arrival. We also have a full range of equipment available for children and babies including a stair gate, highchairs, cots, baby bath, potty, pushchairs and more.

Amazing On-Site Activities

A good selection of DVDs, books and board games can all be found in our Eco Barns. Or if you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, we have a designated games barn on site with pool and table tennis facilities. Buckets, spades, and outdoor games are provided, and we also have beach toys/games available to borrow.

As well as providing a delicious welcome food basket, stocked with local seasonal goodies and sweet treats, we also welcome guests to pick their own herbs and vegetables from our allotment. If you visit in July, you can enjoy a daily feast of courgettes, potatoes, and raspberries. We have an on-site flower meadow with a fenced wildlife pond and a large orchard to explore. Our meadow is a haven for wildlife, with brilliant birdwatching opportunities. Children can collect eggs or feed our free-range chickens – the possibilities are truly endless!

Our Lovely Location

Mill Farm provides the perfect base for relaxing, walking and exploring all that Norfolk has to offer. There are plenty of local things to do during your stay; whether you prefer sunning yourself on a sandy beach or hiring an electric boat, there’s something for everyone here in Norfolk!

Winterton-on-Sea is our local village, just a few minutes’ walk from the barn. This picturesque ancient fishing village features a shop, tearoom, post office, fish & chip shop, beach café, children’s playground, and a fantastic dog-friendly pub. We are just 10 minutes from the stunning sandy beaches at Winterton. This beautiful sandy beach and accompanying dunes stretch for miles upon miles, forming part of the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, as well as a renowned national nature reserve.

Our location is ideal for exploring the UK’s largest wetland area, the Norfolk Broads National Park; with its unique terrain of shallow lakes and rivers renowned for their wonderful wildlife. The Broads are ideal for boating, kayaking, walking, cycling, and fishing. We also highly recommend visiting the nearby seal colony at Horsey. Over 1500 seal pups are born there every year, providing a unique and interesting day out for all the family.

Whisk Your Family or Friends Away to the Threshing Barn

Eco Barn has been carefully designed with groups in mind – providing maximum comfort and practicality, with minimal environmental impact. If you’re seeking a spectacular staycation in the heart of Norfolk, look no further than Mill Farm Eco Barns! Click here to book your stay today.

If you’re a keen wildlife lover (like us!), the East Norfolk Coast and Norfolk Broads are well worth a visit. The county has it all when it comes to wildlife habitats; boasting an extensive variety of landscapes such as chalk rivers, magical marshes, enchanted woodlands, fertile pastures, sandy beaches and the brilliant Broads. We guarantee you’ll be spoilt for choice!

Set within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the county is home to many rare species of fish, birds, and mammals. There’s an amazing array of flora and fauna to discover, whatever time of year! Check out our wildlife highlights in Norfolk below…

The Spectacular Seal Colony

The Horsey Seal Colony is a must-see for wildlife enthusiasts everywhere. Winter is the best time to visit the colony, with the gorgeous grey seals giving birth to their pups during the colder months. Horsey’s pupping season is one of the Norfolk wildlife calendar highlights, providing a unique and memorable wildlife watching experience. The seal pup numbers are now at over 1,500 per year, with the colony slowly expanding towards Winterton-on-Sea.

Photo Credits: Sean Weekley

The Brilliant Broads

The Norfolk Broads is the UK’s largest wetland area, featuring over 125 miles of lock-free waterways. With more miles of waterways than Venice, the Broads is home to around a quarter of the rarest flora and fauna in the UK; best discovered by boat. We highly recommended taking a guided Electric Eel boat trip – discover the Broads’ brilliant wildlife via an experienced guide, such as dazzling dragonflies, majestic marsh harriers, wonderful wildflowers, and stunning swallowtail butterflies. Or you can hire your own electric boat from Martham Ferry Boatyard.

Ross’ Remarkable Wildlife Tours

Ross’ Wildlife Tours run daily boat trips from Easter until the end of September, led by an enthusiastic nature expert. Uncover the secrets of the Norfolk Boards on this informal and relaxing boat ride across Horsey Mere, departing from the staithe by Horsey Windpump. Spot species such as swallowtail butterflies, Norfolk hawker dragonflies, marsh harriers and kingfishers on this wonderful voyage of wildlife discovery.

The Stunning Strumpshaw Fen

Situated on the River Yare, the stunning Strumpshaw Fen boasts a brilliant portfolio of broad land habitats and wildlife, including remarkable reedbeds, wonderful woodlands and orchid-rich wildflower meadows. You can observe marsh harriers, bitterns, and kingfishers go about their business at Strumpshaw Fen. The fen hosts specific activities for children during weekends and school holidays; or they can explore the reserve all year round with a Wildlife Explorer backpack or pond dipping kit.

The Honourable Hickling Broad

Hicking is the largest of the Norfolk Broads, providing a year-round haven for wildlife. Perched upon the Upper Thurne river system, Hickling Broad houses a significant number of the UK’s population of common crane. Discover bitterns, marsh harriers, bearded tits, and barn owls; as well as interesting mammals including Chinese water deer, red deer, and otters. If you’re seeking a more structured activity, the trust offers guided wildlife water trail boat tours, and dawn chorus and evening walks.

The Charming Chalk Bed

Labelled ‘Britain’s Great Barrier Reef’, the Cromer Shoals Chalk Bed dates to the Mesozoic era (the age of the dinosaurs!). Cromer Shoals is the world’s longest chalk bed, measuring in at over 20 miles. The abundant marine life can be found by swimming out or snorkelling from the beach. The chalk bed features over 30 species of shoal fish, blue mussel beds, harbour porpoises, seals, and basking sharks; as well as the purple sponge (Parpal Dumplin’), which was first discovered here in 2011.

Mill Farm Eco Barn’s On-Site Nature Hideout

Here at Mill Farm Eco Barn, we are passionate about nature and encouraging both common and rare wildlife species. Our 2.5-acre site has been converted into a wonderful wildlife haven; we have created a fenced wildlife pond, planted an orchard and native hedge, installed bird boxes, and encouraged wildflower growth. From our paddocks, you can spot several butterfly species, as well as kestrels, hobbies and a good range of garden birds. In the autumn time, we regularly see pink footed geese fly over, spending their days in the neighbour’s field.

So, if you’re seeking a back-to-nature break in Norfolk, look no further than Mill Farm Eco Barn. Click here to book your wildlife watching staycation today!

Have you been to visit Norfolk yet?! Norfolk is a great year-round holiday destination, perfect for a short weekend break or an extended family holiday. Situated on the East coast of England, Norfolk boasts over 90 miles of unspoilt coastline, the renowned Broads National Park, fascinating nature reserves, idyllic market towns, stunning seaside resorts and amazing opportunities for wildlife watching.

As the sunniest and driest county in the country, Norfolk makes for the most delightful UK holiday destination. Positively oozing natural charm and authenticity, there is loads to see and do during a Norfolk staycation. And what’s more, travel times are under 3 hours from London – making it the ideal escape from busy London life.

There are loads of reasons to visit Norfolk and escape from London life – here are our top 5:

1) Blissful Beaches

The county is home to 93 miles of natural coastline (when the tide is out), with traditional seaside resorts, jagged cliffs, sandy dunes, and salt marshes. Norfolk’s golden stretches of sand are ideal for swimming and outdoor games, making for a fun-filled family staycation destination.

On the East Norfolk coast, you will find Gorleston, Great Yarmouth, Winterton-on-Sea, Sea Palling and Horsey, amongst others. Or venture to the North coast and enjoy the beaches at Cromer, Brancaster, and Holkham/Wells. Whatever your preference, we guarantee you will be spoilt for choice! Of course, we must give a special mention to Winterton-on-Sea, our lovely sandy local beach – it’s just 10 minutes walk from our barns and is surrounded by the wonderful Winterton Dunes nature reserve.

2) Beautiful Broads

Norfolk is arguably most famous for its manmade Broads: the UK’s largest wetland area. The Broads feature over 125 miles of lock-free waterways, best enjoyed by boat. The Broads actually have more miles of waterways than Venice and have been aptly nicknamed “the Venice of the West”!

The Broads’ shallow lakes and rivers are ideal for boating, kayaking, walking, cycling, and fishing. There are numerous picturesque towns and villages dotted along the Broads, including Reedham, Aylsham, Acle, Heydon, Coltishall, Wroxham and more. We highly recommend hiring an electric boat from the Martham Ferry Boat Yard and exploring the Broads for a day – we guarantee you won’t regret it!

3) Notorious Norwich

Norwich is well worth a visit during your stay in Norfolk. Norwich is the most well-preserved medieval city in the whole of the UK, blending an eclectic mix of contemporary and historical features.

Many arts, music, and cultural events are regularly held in the city, as well as a fantastic selection of lively restaurants, bars, and nightlife. If you’re a keen shopper, there are lots of independent and high street shopping opportunities; or, if you prefer an educational day out, there is a Norman castle and cathedral to enjoy. There’s something for everyone in the wonderful city of Norwich!

4) Wonderful Wildlife

Norfolk is the true birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting some of the best birdwatching opportunities in the UK. Whatever time of year, there are an amazing array of birds to discover; listen to the dawn chorus in the springtime, watch peregrines nesting in the summer, observe the raptors coming to roost or follow the winter migrants settling on the coast.

There is also a spectacular seal colony on the nearby Horsey beach. With over 1500 seal pups per year, the colony is constantly expanding towards Winterton-on-Sea. Winter is the best time to visit the colony, with the gorgeous grey seals giving birth in the colder months. Pupping season is one of the highlights of Norfolk’s seasonal wildlife calendar, and Horsey beach is certainly well worth a visit.

Seal photos credited to Sean Weekley.

5) Excellent Eateries

The amazing ever-changing landscape in Norfolk gives the county the most fantastic range of local food and drink. From the rich, organic quality of the soil comes tasty meat and vibrant fruit and vegetables, with the coastline providing delicious lobsters, crab, mackerel, oysters, mussels, cockles and more.

There are many award-winning restaurants and pubs to enjoy in the county. Some of our favourites include The Gunton Arms and Ingham Swan for fine dining, The Fisherman’s Return, The Boat House and The Nelson Head for laid-back pub grub, The Norfolk Mead Hotel for afternoon tea, and Planet Spice for authentic Indian cuisine.

Mill Farm Eco Barn: Your Home from Home on the East Norfolk Coast

Situated in the picturesque village of Winterton-on-Sea, Mill Farm Eco Barn provides the perfect setting for a fun family staycation. We are just 10 minute’s walk from Winterton’s sandy beach and pub and only 4 minute’s drive from the spectacular Horsey Seal Colony. Perched on the edge of the brilliant Broads National Park, we are within easy reach of excellent restaurants, National Trust properties and other amazing local attractions.

If you’re seeking an adventurous holiday with your family in Norfolk, look no further than Mill Farm Eco Barn. We are fully booked up for the summer season but have lots of availability for this autumn and winter – Book your stay today!