Soon after booking a Shepherd’s Hut at Godwick Hall, we received a lovely email detailing everything we could possibly need regarding our stay.
Known at Godwick as schlamping, a mix of glamping, champers and shepherds, the information supplied on our reservation included check-in and check-out times, directions on how to get there along with a whole raft of local knowledge regarding many nearby places to eat and drink.
Nestled deep in the Norfolk countryside south of Fakenham, midway between Kings Lynn and Norwich, the journey there was a pleasure. Directed by quaint black and white signposts calling out names like Mileham, Tittleshall and Wellingham the scenic drive took us past picturesque fields growing an abundance of healthy seasonal produce.
The approach to Godwick Hall takes you along an impressive tree-lined driveway and past a couple of star-gazing bell tents before arriving at the trio of Shepherd’s Huts with its own designated parking area. Check-in was quick and seamless as we had already received accommodation key codes allowing us to quickly unpack and start with the serious business of relaxing!
A privacy screen outside each hut allowed us to enjoy the outside seating area in relative seclusion and the east facing double-door entrance supplied breathtaking views across Norfolk’s stunning countryside. l
Inside the Shepherd’s Hut (ours was called Ryeland Retreat), we were presented with a fabulous breakfast tray containing goodies such as fresh bread, milk and orange juice in glass bottles along with cereal, granola, yoghurt, butter and a selection of jams. Leaving those treats until breakfast time was going to be a challenge!
Wood and kindling for the hut wood burner was also available if required and a reasonable sized fridge meant we were able to stock up with food and drink for the duration of our stay.
Sitting outside the hut and watching the sun set in such a peaceful and tranquil environment was something to be cherished. The silence, other than the natural noises of the countryside is rare in our day-to-day busy lives and made a welcome change. Climbing into the comfortable double bed by candlelight was a precursor for a restful nights sleep.
The next morning we woke early but refreshed and tucked into our delicious pre-arranged breakfast.
Having enjoyed our tasty food, it was time to shower and get ready for the day ahead. Despite the bathroom being cosy, the shower was great. It was hot, powerful and came with a good selection of complementary hair and body products.
With another sunny day ahead, first on the list was to put up the big two-person hammock between two trees (easy to do), then hop in and relax.
After an intense bout of relacing, we took a short 10 minute drive north to Fakenham, a nearby market town where we spent a couple of pleasant hours having a wander around the shops and enjoyed a cold beverage in one of the many nice pubs.
Loaded with goodies, we again spent the evening making the most of the hut’s tranquil setting allowing us to do more relaxing, eating and drinking.
When the main house isn’t in use guests can also take advantage of the Hall’s splendid outdoor swimming pool. We were too busy enjoying our restful stay to give it a go but would highly recommend it to others staying at Godwick.
On the final morning, after breakfast (we had enough left from the day before) the checkout process was really simple. We dismantled the hammock, bagged up the towels as requested, left the windows open and closed the door behind us – relaxed and recharged after a thoroughly enjoyable stay..
One word summary thoughts;
- peaceful, beautiful, idyllic, relaxing, scenic, refreshing and romantic.
Two word summary thoughts;
- book again, sun cream, hammock learning, country sounds, sunrise/sunset!
For more information about the range of accommodation (and events) at Godwick Hall, check out their website and even enjoy a 3Dvirtual tour https://godwickhall.co.uk/
