HOT HOTEL
NORFOLK
Fritton Lake, Norfolk
For many of us, UK getaways are the new normal. Challenged by the prospect of a fortnight’s quarantine when arriving back from an overseas break, the options for a few days’ escape played out like a lottery this summer, so we set our sights on a more local destination to switch off from the daily grind.
Just two hours from London, nestled in the heart of Norfolk, is Fritton
Lake, quite possibly Britain’s bestkept short-break secret. Set in 5,000 acres of woodland, and surrounding its namesake lake, the grounds feature more than 80 privately owned cabins tucked away in the woods for maximum privacy, with many available for hire. Features vary, and some even come with hot tubs. Needless to say, demand is high, so early booking is recommended if you have specific travel dates.
The grounds offer plenty of adventure. All-weather tennis courts lead to an impressive heated outdoor pool, beyond which the gardens unfurl to the edge of the lake. Early-morning yoga provides the perfect stretch for those looking to limber up or zen out. Activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking and boating are available, and with the sun beating down on the still lake, it makes for the perfect way to unwind.
We stayed at the Fritton Arms, the cosy pub located in the heart of Fritton Lake. The staff are a delight, while the kitchen serves up the most delectable home-cooked fare. The fish pie is highly commended by my partner and myself, so much so that we had another helping the next day.
A short drive to the other side of the lake is Somerleyton Hall, home of Lord and Lady Somerleyton. The surrounding gardens are being lovingly restored, while the dashing Lord Somerleyton has invested heavily in re-wilding the land around the Fritton estate to encourage a more natural environment. I’d definitely suggest a re-wilding tour with groundskeeper Matt, who will whisk you around on a buggy and show you the hidden treasures of Fritton Lake and the curious and friendly animals that call it home.
Come midnight, we wandered off into a field and found a tranquil spot where we looked up into the night sky and lost ourselves in the stars. Without the light pollution we are used to in the capital, it was a reminder that Fritton’s pleasures extend beyond the lake and woodlands. The dark and silence enveloped us — we could have been a million miles away from anywhere.
With enough activities for those that like to keep busy, or the option to simply switch off, Fritton Lake delivers you a few days away from the world, just a couple of hours away from home.