Cley Windmill

Norfolk's flat countryside and beautiful coastline make it a great choice for a rural weekend away. Dotted with pretty historic towns and villages there are a number of traditional buildings which have now been turned into hotels. Some of the best are the more unusual buildings which are sure to provide bags of character. From windmills to converted schools, our hotel experts have chosen a select few of the best unusual places to stay in Norfolk. So why not browse through our collection to start planning your next trip?

For a coastal stay

Cley Windmill

  • Cley Windmill is (as the name suggests) a windmill, turned B&B, overlooking the marshes of Cley. Rooms aren't enormous but they have bags of character. The nearby beaches are perfect for long blustery walks or for a dip in the summer.

For self-catering

Chalk and Cheese

  • Chalk and Cheese is a converted school offering charming accommodation with options of either B&B or self-catering cottages and lodges. Interiors are classic, with white on white style highlighting the building's original features. A great base to return to after a day spent rambling.

For a traditional choice

Byfords

  • Byfords is Holt's oldest building and a former ironmongers. Rooms are decorated in a traditional style with sumptuous beds, soft throws and Bang & Olufsen sound systems. A perfect Olde World country stay.

Still not sure?

Unusual Places to Stay in Norfolk

Cley Windmill

Norfolk

Characterful windmill B&B overlooking marshes of Cley, a pretty village near shingle coast where locals swim. Quaint rooms with comfortable beds and wonderful views. Good birdwatching nearby.

  • Birdwatching - For keen ornithologist NWT Cley Marshes Nature Reserve is a wonderful area for spotting all manner of birds.
  • Views - Panoramic views over the salt marshes
  • Local markets - Just South of the mill are small shops, selling pottery, smoked fish and secondhand books.
  • Restaurant - A no-choice, three-course menu at £32.50 per head is served at 7.30pm and changes daily.
from $227 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Byfords

Holt (Norfolk)

Holt's oldest building, a former ironmongers, this hotel promises an Olde World country stay. Rooms are decorated in a traditional style with sumptuous beds, soft throws and Bang & Olufsen sound systems. Bathrooms have underfloor heating. A bustling deli and café attracts locals and tourists alike.

  • Sights nearby - The famous stately home of Sheringham Park is just a short drive away.
  • Great walks - Peddars Way and the Norfolk Coast Path are popular amongst ramblers.
  • Sailing - Take a boat out in search for whales, seals, dolphins and porpoises.
  • Local markets - Visit Holt's Farmer's Market, held every Saturday.
from $197 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Chalk & Cheese

Norfolk (Shouldham Thorpe)

A charming Victorian schoolhouse turned B&B, plus self catering cottage and lodges, set on a pretty village green near the Norfolk coast. Brimming with character throughout the rooms are a mix of chintz fabrics, antiques and traditional artwork. Expect hearty breakfasts and superb walking country.

  • Local exploring - A characterful and classically British base to explore the pretty Norfolk coast from.
  • Great walks - Find picturesque walking trails starting from nearby the property.
  • Full of character
  • Traditional
from $89 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Written by Katie Harris

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