Guests say
Orchard House offers a tranquil countryside retreat close to Holt, ideal for cycling and wildlife watching, with guests frequently mentioning deer, peacocks, and swallows. The property is praised for its comfortable accommodation, lovely garden, and especially the heated swimming pool, which is a highlight for families. While most guests found the house cosy and well-equipped, one review noted issues with cleanliness and some maintenance concerns. Overall, guests enjoyed the peaceful setting and relaxing atmosphere, making it a popular choice for a restful holiday.
Most reviews do not mention cleanliness, but one guest reported significant dust and cobwebs, while others did not raise concerns. This suggests generally acceptable standards, but with occasional lapses.
The location is highly praised for its tranquillity, countryside views, proximity to Holt, and access to North Norfolk's attractions. Guests appreciated the peaceful setting and wildlife.
Guests frequently described the house as comfortable, warm, and cosy, with good beds. Only one review mentioned minor maintenance issues, but overall comfort is a strong point.
The heated swimming pool is a standout feature, though it is communal and across the road. The property is described as well-equipped, but there are some reports of dated appliances and minor maintenance issues.
There are no mentions of welcome gifts or extra thoughtful touches in the reviews, so a score cannot be provided for this category.
About this property
Orchard House is a perfect choice for a relaxing and peaceful holiday, set in a picturesque rural location near to the village of Hempstead. Complete with tennis court and swimming pool..
Ground Floor:
Living room: 43" Freeview Smart TV, Woodburner
Kitchen/dining room: Electric Oven, Gas Hob, Fridge/Freezer, Dishwasher, Washer Dryer
Living room 2: Freeview TV
Shower Room: Cubicle Shower, Toilet
First Floor:
Bedroom 1: Kingsize (5ft) Bed
Bedroom 2: Kingsize (5ft) Bed
Bedroom 3: Single (3ft) Bed
Bedroom 4: Single (3ft) Bed
Bathroom: Bath, Heated Towel Rail, Toilet.
Oil central heating, gas, electricity, bed linen, towels, Wi-Fi and logs for wood burner included (honesty box). Highchair. Welcome pack. Oil central heating, gas, electricity, bed linen, towels, Wi-Fi and logs for wood burner included (honesty box). Highchair. Welcome pack. Courtyard with sitting-out area, garden furniture and barbecue. Outdoor heated swimming pool with changing facilities (shared with owners and one other property on-site, Please bring your own swimming towels.) 9am-12pm; afternoons by arrangement with owner. 12m x 6m, depth 1.2m - 2.7m, open daily from 29th May - 4th September 2026). Please bring your own swimming towels. Tennis court (shared with owners and one other property on-site, from 29th May - 4th September 2026, 9am-4pm, Please bring your own rackets and balls). Bike store. 1 dog welcome, to be kept on a lead at all times (working farm). Private parking. No smoking. Please note: There is an unfenced pond, 5 yards away from the end of the garden.. Set on the Hole Farm Estate, winners of a National Conservation award, Orchard House is a great choice for those looking to explore the area from a picturesque and peaceful setting. Orchard House boasts views across the open countryside. It is furnished with a good mix of antiques and modern pieces and will appeal to those looking for something quirky with some really lovely touches.
There is a lot of history associated with the site. In 1379, John Blakeneye, citizen and fishmonger of London, bought the manor of Hempstead, including the Hole Farmlands, from John de Stodeye, Lord Mayor of London, and by the mid 15th century, many of the farm buildings were built. Owned by the second Earl of Buckinghamshire in the mid 1700s, it later became part of the Blickling Estate. In 1884, the estate, now run by Lady Constance Lothian, had some major alterations and rebuilding at Hole Farm. These improvements included both the repairing of all the buildings in the original farmyard and the creation of a cattle yard. In fact, the old walls for the cattle yard now provide the shelter for the lovely seasonal, outdoor, heated swimming pool; (guests should bring their own swimming towels). There is also a shared tennis court (please bring your own rackets and balls).
The family who now own the property, have planted 60 acres of woodland and 8½ miles of hedges and the farm has won many conservation and forestry awards. The setting is just lovely as it’s nestled within the beautiful North Norfolk countryside. It’s a 15-minute drive to the stunning coastline where you will find yourself amongst beautiful sandy and shingle beaches, marsh habitats and picturesque quays. Take a trip to Cromer and walk along the Edwardian promenade or take a stroll along the pier. Head to Blakeney for the Norfolk pursuit of gillie catching. Blickling Estate is just 15 minutes away, but don’t forget to find time to visit Holkham Hall and the Sandringham Estate too.
The property is located on a working farm.
Children must be supervised on site due to possible safety hazards.
There is open water in the property grounds.
Pets must be kept on a lead at all times.
Suitable for up to 1 pet
Reviews (8)
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Roger Bird
Quiet but well placed
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Di W
Orchard House is a very special place. We all loved it. Comfortable and warm we delighted in watching the wildlife (deer and hares) visit the garden, including being welcomed on our arrival by 5 wild peacocks sitting on the patio chairs. But the highlight was swimming while the swallows flew over the pool along with the resident Red Kites. The amazing pool was just 2 minutes walk opposite the front door.
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Annabelle
We had a delightful Christmas week in Orchard House. The setting is beautiful complete with peacocks roaming the gardens and views of deer in the fields. The house was cosy and comfortable, just perfect for Christmas.