Long House

Long House is a modernist's dream. Designed by Sir Michael and Lady Patty Hopkins, it sits on the flat expanse of the Norfolk landscape like a piece of art and is perfect for a large family wanting plenty of space or a group of friends looking for a place to reflect and create. With views over the inlets, salt marshes and creeks of the North Sea coast, it is a place out of time, distinctive for its huge traditionally crafted exterior flint wall.

On entering the house through its centrally positioned unimposing front door you'll be amazed at the sheer scope of the interior. The grand central hall has an expansive vaulted timber roof ‘floating’ above the rooms below. To one side, a stunning timber spiral staircase leads up to a galleried balcony and upper floor. The vast endless countryside is constantly in view through the many windows all around creating a sense of being a part of the surroundings rather than simply viewing them.

The ground floor is very spacious and is semi-divided into three main areas: the grand hall, the living room and an open plan kitchen and dining area. This fab dining space has a large oval 12 seater table for sharing meals prepared in the fully equipped kitchen. The space allows for people to relax together or find your own spot to snooze or read a book. A series of clerestory windows extend across the entire length of the house allowing light to flood through and the double-sided wood burner is a particularly lovely feature and an excellent spot to gather and chat, read or drink on a chilly night.

Two semi-enclosed courtyards are positioned at eastern and western ends of the house, accessed through full height sliding doors; both areas are perfect for a morning coffee or an early evening lifter whilst watching the sun set over the fields.

When it comes to bed, there's also one double bedroom with an en-suite and a desk on the ground floor, ideal for anyone with mobility issues. This room is decorated in a simple minimalist and elegant style with a comfortable double bed.

The other four double bedrooms are situated off the galleried hall on the first floor. All of these rooms are en-suite, and some have with showers, whilst others have baths for added luxury. Two bedrooms can be made into twins if required, providing greater flexibility. These rooms are timber-lined and have been thoughtfully and simply decorated, creating a calm and soothing environment, perfect for a deep night's sleep.

Despite the appearance of isolation, you'll find lots of traditional villages and seaside towns nearby. Norfolk's most famous beaches, Wells-next-the-Sea, Holkham and Blakeney (all excellent for crabbing) are a short distance from Long House by car and you might fancy taking a boat trip to Morston Quay or Blakeney Point. Or you can hire a bike from 'On Yer Bike Cycle Hire' and explore the area that way.

For food you'll be spoilt for choice with plenty of excellent pubs and restaurants nearby. Maybe a Sunday lunch at The White Horse Hotel in Blakeney or some delicious seafood at The Old Forge in Thursford. And if you want to prepare a feast at home you'll find plenty of bakers, butchers and fishmongers in the nearby villages and Wiveton Hall has a lovely farm shop and cafe.