Goldfinch Cottage Norfolk

23/10/2024

There's a new feature on Air B&B where you can create your own Guest Guidebook. I've been working on mine and have included some of my favourite places close to Goldfinch Cottage, including:

Cafe Carmel
North Sea Coffee Co
The Gunton Arms
Rocky Bottoms
Poppylands
Whelk Coppers
Archangel Distilleries
Paul Dickson Tours
North Norfolk Railway PLC
Cromer Artspace
East Ruston Old Vicarage
Broads Tours

Once I have completed it, I'll make it available on my website.

23/10/2024

I'm in the process of listing Goldfinch Cottage on Air B&B so I thought I'd offer a 15% discount if you book direct through me before 31 October 2024.

What makes Goldfinch special?

🐦It's off the beaten track in a perfectly peaceful location.
🐦The cottage is spacious and filled with light, but cosy.
🐦A luxurious super king bed with crisp white cotton sheets.
🐦Big fluffy towels.
🐦Superb wet room shower.
🐦Loads of reading material, much of it featuring Norfolk.
🐦Private courtyard for alfresco dining (weather permitting).
🐦Communal paddock for your dogs to race around.
🐦Blankets and towels supplied for your furry friends.
🐦Close to wonderful beaches and stunning coastline.

The cottage sleeps 4 people and is on one level so very accessible.

To check availability this year and next, just whizz me an email to [email protected]

19/10/2024

One of things I love doing when I get up to the cottage is to check my guest book for comments. So far, I have read nothing negative. In fact the book is full of guests who have obviously enjoyed staying at Goldfinch and exploring the area. Have had some marvellous feedback about the comfort and attention to detail which pleases me no end, as I have tried to include everything I would want in self catering accommodation.

More reviews at https://goldfinchnorfolk.co.uk/reviews and if you fancy booking just whizz me an email at [email protected]

19/10/2024

Walking at Wells-next-the-sea a couple of days ago I was transported back into an Elly Griffiths novel. Pinewoods, marshes, dunes and sea.

As we crept our way through the marsh to the woods beyond, I was imagining how frightening it would be to find yourself there in the dark with the tide coming in (very quickly) and not having any firm path to safety. A bad outcome would be incredibly easy.

19/10/2024

This is a lovely gentle series about life in Norfolk and Suffolk to get you in the mood for your stay at Goldfinch Cottage.

https://www.channel5.com/show/norfolk-and-suffolk-country-coast/season-1/episode-1

07/09/2024

I've just discovered this marvellous programme and this episode features the amazing East Ruston Gardens, just around the corner from Goldfinch Cottage. Well worth a visit.

Horticulturist Christine Walkden explores gardens and countryside from a hot-air balloon. Christine travels over the flattest part of Britain as she descends on Norfolk.

02/09/2024

My guests have taken the time out of their holiday to email me:

"Hello Jane, we are enjoying your beautiful cottage, the weather is beautiful and your attention to detail at this lovely retreat is amazing. Thank you for the welcome basket 🧺 Charlie (doggie) is enjoying the treats and we will investigate the cookies etc ... we feel very blessed to enjoy this 5 star 🌟 retreat x thank you 🙏" Christine x

17/08/2024

I have a few dates left in August if anyone fancies a last minute break. 25 to 31 August. As it's late notice I can do a bit of a reduced rate.

September is pretty booked out but I have 3 nights available from 10 to 13 (arrive 4pm on 10th and leave 10am on 13th). 6 nights arriving 4pm 21st and leaving 10am on 27th. More dates available October onwards.

Message me or email [email protected] for more information.

18/07/2024

I'm going to be taking a well-needed break at Goldfinch Cottage myself shortly to recuperate after a very busy few months. It's the perfect place to unwind and I am looking forward to doing as little as possible. However, I have lined up a few things. Here's the list:

Felbrigg Hall
I’ve been here many times but never tire of the wonderful walks in the woodland surrounding the property. I’ve never been inside the house as I always have Hugo my Yorkie with me. But this time I’m going to let husband and dog off the leash in the woods and explore the Hall itself. Special spots of interest are the ice house, the lake and Felbrigg church.
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/norfolk/felbrigg-hall-gardens-and-estate/family-days-out-at-felbrigg
30 mins away from Goldfinch

Archangel Gin
The best gin I’ve ever tasted (and I’ve sampled many a gin over the years) is Archangel. A couple of years ago a friend gave me the gift of a tour of the distillery. Only 2 rooms involved in the tour but the owners are very charismatic and it was a fascinating 1 and ¾ hours which included sampling their range. I won’t be doing the tour but I will definitely be purchasing a few bottles of this heavenly creation.
https://www.archangel-distilleries.co.uk/
It’s an hour’s drive to the distillery from Goldfinch. Combine it with a wander around the lovely market town of Holt but make sure you appoint a designated driver.

The Shell Museum
A little cabinet of curiosities in the village of Glandford. As well as shells, fragments of pottery and a piece of Pompeii there is also a tapestry by local fisherman John Craske. I’ve been reading ‘Threads: The Delicate Life of John Craske’ (which you can find at Goldfinch Cottage) so I’m fascinated to see this.
https://www.shellmuseum.org.uk/
50 mins away from Goldfinch

Norfolk Broads River Trips
You can’t visit Norfolk without some messing about on the river. There are some great trips that launch from Wroxham and thankfully the 2 passenger boats are dog friendly, so Hugo gets to come too. There is something very peaceful about cruising down the broads with just the sound of the rushes and the wildlife … and some storytelling from the Captain.
https://www.broadstours.co.uk/vintage-broadsman-broads-river-trips/
20 mins away from Goldfinch

Guided Tour of Medieval Norwich
I’ve been meaning to do one of these tours for ages but keep getting pulled to the beaches rather than inland. However, it will be great to be able to recommend this tour guide to my Goldfinch guests. The ancient streets of Norwich are so atmospheric and full of character, and I really need to find out more about the history of this lovely city. I have now booked this and, as are so many places and things in Norfolk, it's dog-friendly.
https://www.pauldicksontours.co.uk/
35 mins away from Goldfinch

If you fancy getting away from it all message me for availability or email [email protected]

03/07/2024

This morning I was chatting with a friend about spiritual and contemplative places. Just a 30 minute drive away from Goldfinch Cottage is the Abbey of St Benet's which lies within the Broads and is completely off the beaten track. There are no loos or other facilities like a tearoom here. Just peace and quiet. Don’t miss the Talking Bench which can be found on the west side of the ruined church.

This is just one of the fascinating places you can visit if you stay in North Norfolk and certainly one of my favourites.

I have dates available in August at the cottage, so message me or email ladyfen@goldfinchnorfolk for more details. Check out the website for more information on the property https://goldfinchnorfolk.co.uk/

24/06/2024

I have guest leaving the cottage today and they sent me a short email to say how much they'd enjoyed their stay. I've worked hard to make Goldfinch Cottage as comfortable as possible with lots of nice little touches that I miss when I stay in self catering accommodation.

Feeling very happy this morning.

20/06/2024

We popped up to Goldfinch today to do some tidying up in the garden. More guests arriving tomorrow so we couldn't stay over although we managed a lovely walk on Happisburgh Beach.

It was a beautifully warm day and the plants were flourishing. The apples trees looked enticing, and the paddock had been freshly mown.

The courtyard garden is an absolute sun trap but the roses growing over the pergola offer some shade. At night the solar nights really add atmosphere. Perfect for alfresco dining or a nip of gin under the stars.

My plan is to get up there in August for a proper break. If anyone else fancies a getaway to this most peaceful haven do message or email me [email protected]

20/06/2024

Hugo says thanks for the lovely reviews left by recent guests at Goldfinch Cottage. Here are a few snippets:

"Probably the best planned and appointed country cottage we have stayed in."

"A real home from home. Very comfortable, very well equipped. Peaceful and relaxing."

"Lovely stay. Very peaceful. Everything thought of in Goldfinch."

"Such a lovely place. I was able to relax. You have thought of everything."

04/05/2024

Is your idea of a relaxing break one that involves getting away from the madding crowd, walking on quiet sandy beaches, soaking up the sea air and chilling out in a 'less touristy' part of the country. Our cottage is on the North East coast of Norfolk just a short drive (or walk) from Happisburgh beach.

The cottage has 2 bedrooms, one luxurious super king bed and two singles. The accommodation is all on one level so perfect for people needing easy accessibility. We are dog-friendly (well it's Norfolk after all!). The cottage is beautifully appointed with all you need for a comfortable get away. The courtyard garden is private, not overlooked and secure.

There's a 3 night minimum stay and we have some availability over the next few months. So be in touch [email protected]. More information and photos on the website https://goldfinchnorfolk.co.uk/

24/04/2024

Our last guests enjoyed their stay in Goldfinch Cottage Norfolk, chilling out and exploring the surrounding beaches and countryside.

"You have a beautiful cottage, so well appointed and a lovely location. We are certainly thinking about returning later in the year or next Spring."

The cottage is available during the summer and autumn so if you'd like a break away from the madding the crowd, message me or email [email protected] with your dates.

07/04/2024

I've been painting the pergola this weekend. Ended up with green hair. I'm part way finished on the fence but been rained off for weeks and now the plants are climbing and I don't want to disturb them. It all looks very welcoming though set up for a spot of lunch or tea.

07/01/2024

For anyone staying at Goldfinch Cottage Norfolk in the next few months there are a few treats in store. Excited to discover that Cromer Community Centre are hosting Attila the Stockbroker, Ed Pole Tudor, John Otway, Tom Robinson, Spike from the Quireboys and Medicine Head. Incredibly affordable tickets. Yet another reason to book my cosy cottage.

02/01/2024

My guests who spent New Year at Goldfinch Cottage Norfolk have left me a glowing review. So pleased that people notice the little details.

"Wonderful new year spent with friends at Goldfinch Cottage. Jane pays attention to the details that make a break 5 star: -

A box of dishwasher tabs, not one or two but plenty.
Plenty of tea towels.
Sharp cooking knife.
Good quality tea bags.
Thick quality towels.

I could go on, thank you.

There are lots of dog walks from the house and the kitchen door opens out to a fully fenced courtyard so dogs can be off lead. Highly recommend a stay."

If you fancy a break in an unspoiled area of Norfolk, do get in touch.