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Willows Retreat

East Harling, near Thetford, Norfolk
Sleeps 4
Bedrooms 2
Bathrooms 1
Change Fri
Dogs welcome 1
4 star
Log Cabin / Lodge
Waterside Views
Parking on site / nearby
Towels included
Family friendly
Romantic
Fishing on site / nearby
Working farm
Hot Tub
Enclosed garden / patio
Downstairs bedroom
Downstairs bathroom
Shop nearby
Pub nearby
Complex
15 more

At a glance

  • Relax in your own private hot tub while gazing up at the night sky in this splendid purpose-built holiday cabin on the bank of a one-acre lake
  • Nearby Thetford Forest offers a range of active pursuits and ideal for walking and cycling
  • Close to the Norfolk / Suffolk border ensuring both counties can be visited and enjoy the local attractions and coastlines with lovely beaches 
Property code: OC-73624

This beautiful purpose-built lodge is ideal for couples or families looking for a holiday that embraces the outdoor life. You can simply relax next to or fish for roach, tench and carp from the banks of the private lake or on the River Thet without leaving the grounds. The lodge is part of a complex of properties, making it also a great choice for groups travelling together. With raised decking to sit out on to enjoy the views, your stay will be one to remember. Nearby Thetford Park (10 miles) offers tranquil walking opportunities, tree-lined cycle routes and even a Go Ape adventure centre.

Step inside this delightful property and you’ll discover contemporary decor and furnishings that beautifully reflect the natural surroundings. With a warm and welcoming feel, you can easily relax in the light and spacious open-plan lounge/kitchen area. This sociable space is the heart of the lodge and is flooded with natural light thanks to dual-aspect floor-to-ceiling windows. In this cheerful ambience, sink into the inviting seating and watch the TV or sit on the stools around the breakfast bar while enjoying a drink and catching up. In the kitchen is everything you need to cook up a storm after a day of exploring the local Norfolk attractions. French doors lead directly to your private outdoor decking space. Completing the property is a shower room and two bedrooms: one king-size and one twin. Dine alfresco out on the terrace and afterwards take a stroll to discover this lovely estate with a lake, access to the River Thet and, plenty of green lawn for the kids to play.

There is plenty of entertainment for families at Banham Zoo (4.5 miles) or Melsop Farm Park (10.5 miles). If you love delving into the local history, cycle part of The Millers Trail at Ixworth (13 miles), visiting the local windmills and passing through scenic countryside. For a more leisurely day, head to the market town of Diss (11 miles) and enjoy the timber-framed buildings, Georgian/Edwardian facades, and the museum.

  • 2 bedrooms - 1 king-size and 1 twin zip and link (which can be made into a king size on request, must be stated at the time of booking)
  • 1 shower room
  • Electric oven and hob, microwave and fridge/freezer
  • TV/DVD in lounge
  • Decking area enclosed, surroundings gardens are not
  • Private hot tub
  • There is no Wifi at the property 
  • Shop and pub within walking distance
  • Off-road parking for 4 cars
  • Please note the farm offers boarding kennels on site and dogs must be kept on a lead when walking the estate
  • Snetterton Race track is located close to the property and there maybe some noise disturbance at certain times throughout the year 
  • Fishing on site, Pike fishing is closed between 13th March - October each year. Fishing rules apply
  • Arrival: 16:00 onwards
  • Departure: before 10:00
  • 1 dog allowed. Additional charges may apply

Liz Johnson

This property is personally managed by Liz.

Reviews

From guests that have stayed at the property.

Based on 33 guest ratings

Overall cleanliness
Overall cleanliness 4.2 starsOverall cleanliness 4.2 starsOverall cleanliness 4.2 starsOverall cleanliness 4.2 starsOverall cleanliness 4.2 stars4.2
Overall equipment
Overall equipment 4 starsOverall equipment 4 starsOverall equipment 4 starsOverall equipment 4 starsOverall equipment 4 stars4
Overall comfort
Overall comfort 4.3 starsOverall comfort 4.3 starsOverall comfort 4.3 starsOverall comfort 4.3 starsOverall comfort 4.3 stars4.3
Overall location
Overall location 4.5 starsOverall location 4.5 starsOverall location 4.5 starsOverall location 4.5 starsOverall location 4.5 stars4.5

Reviewed by Jane 16th May 2026

Guest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 stars

A lovely cottage literally a few feet away from the fishing lake. My Husband and Son caught quite a few fish. The largest being a 22Lb carp. The cottage was clean and had everything that we needed. The hot tub was perfect after a days walk. In a good location as you can walk into the Village in approx 5mins to The Swan Pub,and The Nags head which Read moreboth serve lovely food. There is also a chip shop which also serves burgers and kebabs. Opening soon is a caf. Co-op and Pharmacy are also in the village. Various walks are within a 15 min drive away. The cottage was perfect for us and our dog. We had a great holiday here and I would recommend it. Hide

Reviewed by Susan 23rd April 2026

Guest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 stars

We had an excellent long weekend at the Willows Retreat. Fishing and Hot Tub were great.

Reviewed by Emma 14th April 2026

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We loved Willows Retreat and cant wait to return! Great lodge and relaxing surroundings. Fishing at the private lake was really good and literally outside the lodge. The local village is just a short walk away which is very convenient with great fish and chips and nice pubs. See you again soon!

Reviewed by Norbert 31st March 2026

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Really nice cottage. Good for a quiet getaway in the middle of nowhere. At night, we were able to hear the frogs croaking around the lake. That said, guests should be aware that you can also hear the dogs barking (sometimes continuously through the night) from the kennels nearby, when the windows are opened.

Reviewed by Ian Kenneth 14th November 2025

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Willow retreat was a joy to be back at quite peaceful and extremely relaxing it had everything needed it was warm and cosy and the village had 2 good pubs a small bakery and a DIY shop and small village grocery shop for your essentials forgot there's a great fish and hips and a Chinese so if you don't want to cook there's places to get food fishingRead more wasn't that good this time but we still caught some nice carp Hide

Reviewed by Anne 4th November 2025

Guest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 stars

Enjoyed our stay with our dog. Good local walks through Harling wood. The pubs and village were only a 5 minutes walk away. Recommend the Nags head for a dog friendly warm welcome and good food.

Reviewed by Ian 26th September 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Overall we had a great stay at the property with a fantastic fishing spot and the village of East Harling has everything you need just a stones throw away 10/10

Reviewed by Stuart 25th August 2025

Guest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 stars

Loved our stay here. Really good fishing on the lake where we caught lots of carp up to 10 lb. Saw bigger fish in the margins that looked around 15 - 20 lb but didn't catch them. The lodge had all we needed to cook, relax and enjoy ourselves. The hot tub was excellent and the DVD player and selection of DVDs was a good addition where there is no WiRead moreFi. Would definitely come back. Hide

Reviewed by Donna 22nd August 2025

Guest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 stars

Has everything you need for a short break!

Reviewed by Paul 8th August 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

A beautiful and secluded location, the hot tub was lovely and the property was perfect for our family!

Reviewed by Justine 2nd August 2025

Guest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 stars

We had a wonderful break this August. Nestled between the small lake and the river, our cottage was ideally positioned to explore the close nature and also for walks offsite. We had no reason to contact the owners, but the feel of the estate was warm and inclusive. We would stay again; it's a beautiful part of the UK and a super base from which to Read moreexplore. Hide

Reviewed by Marianne 11th July 2025

Guest rating 3.4 starsGuest rating 3.4 starsGuest rating 3.4 starsGuest rating 3.4 starsGuest rating 3.4 stars

Reviewed by Ian 30th June 2025

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Willow Retreat cottage is excellent. If you are also going to fish then be aware you need to have some heavier gear with you. Two Lilly pads either side of your swim and hanging trees give the hard fighting fish lots of opportunity to snag you. Lots of broken hook lengths (8lb) and a snapped pole top kit was the result. If you go long you have a beRead moretter chance of bringing them over the top of the Lillys. Not a criticism, just useful information for any anglers. Hide

Reviewed by Yvonne 13th June 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Cottage fantastic.

Reviewed by Hannah 6th June 2025

Guest rating 2.8 starsGuest rating 2.8 starsGuest rating 2.8 starsGuest rating 2.8 starsGuest rating 2.8 stars

!SELECTED!!ENDOFSELECTED!

Reviewed by Richard 21st April 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

It was a lovely stay at Willows Retreat. I took my wife there for her birthday; she thoroughly enjoyed it. The place was so relaxing and peaceful. We will definitely be back at some time in the near future.

Reviewed by Sarah 4th April 2025

Guest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 stars

Lovely cabin. Has everything you need and a perfect spot for fishing! A bit of noise from the kennels but wasnt too bad and wasnt through the night

Reviewed by Emily 7th March 2025

Guest rating 3.8 starsGuest rating 3.8 starsGuest rating 3.8 starsGuest rating 3.8 starsGuest rating 3.8 stars

Reviewed by Ty 31st January 2025

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Absolutely lovely cottage! Booked for 2 nights Fri-Sun for my partners birthday and she absolutely loved it. The location is perfect and the cottage itself is beautiful, it was perfect. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a nice little weekend getaway.

Reviewed by Katie 17th January 2025

Guest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 stars

Great little lodge in a remote area and lovely pub in walking distance (The Swan). We really enjoyed the hot tub. Owners very helpful and friendly.

Reviewed by Agnese 10th January 2025

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Really nice and relaxing environment.

Reviewed by Paige 8th November 2024

Guest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 stars

The properties location is beautiful and there are multiple places to go on walks. I was a bit unsure about booking due to the dog kennels and the noise however we heard them a couple of time late morning for about 3/5 minutes nothing that would disturb us. The hot tub is a good addition also especially if you want to star gaze!! We done the puzzleRead mores in the property also Hide

Reviewed by Harley 4th November 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Brilliant cabin! Brilliant walks and surrounded by lovely woodlands

Reviewed by Anna 18th October 2024

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Well equipped lodge and lovely location. Beds were very comfortable and it was great to have some private outdoor space. Car parking was in close proximity which was ideal to fetch and carry luggage and fishing equipment. There isn't any outdoor storage and internal storage is limited so in wet weather your fishing equipment either needs to stay ouRead moretside on porch area or back in your car Hide

Reviewed by Janet 27th September 2024

Guest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 stars

Hot tub could do with a service. Corner lamp full of cobwebs. Accommodation comfortable and nicely situated for fishing. Could have done with small hoover and a mop. Just few small issues that need addressing.

Reviewed by Rosaleen 20th September 2024

Guest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 starsGuest rating 3.2 stars

Beautiful area, fantastic site, amazing setting on the lakeside itself. However the lodges are sold to the customer as 'luxury', which they absolutely could be with a little care and attention to detail. The lodge we stayed in was looking very tired, filthy windows ( and the veiw was a large part of our decision to stay here), all the curtains needRead moreed washing as they were dirty, the hot tub area was not at all inviting and again needed some general care and attention. So disappointed. Hide

Reviewed by Robert 6th September 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Very enjoyable week at Waterways Farm comfortable modern accommodation and pretty surroundings with some lovely walks available ,fishing on site was quite good but we only had lots of small carp and you wont get a PB fishing here . Biggest problem was the constant barking from the local boarding kennels that could be heard at any time of the day orRead more night and became most intrusive and all of the people staying on site were getting very fed up with it by the end of the week Hide

Reviewed by Elizabeth 23rd August 2024

Guest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 stars

Heavenly. We simply loved the private space of the lodge. Surroundings outstanding, great walks on site and a very leisurely picnic enjoyed by the gazebo. Short walk to both pubs, shop and park; perfect. Hot tub enjoyed. Facilities couldn't have been better. Happy parents, 9 year old and dog....thank you. Would definitely recommend

Reviewed by S 6th August 2024

Guest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 starsGuest rating 3.6 stars

Reviewed by Stuart 26th July 2024

Guest rating 3 starsGuest rating 3 starsGuest rating 3 starsGuest rating 3 starsGuest rating 3 stars

Reviewed by Stephen 22nd July 2024

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Lovely location ,accommodation was clean and had everything you needed. Site was well laid out and clean and tidy , hot tub was not great but usable.

Reviewed by Sharon 8th July 2024

Guest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 starsGuest rating 4 stars

Reviewed by Alan 28th June 2024

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

31 more
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Location

Map
Note: As the postcode is used to identify the general area of the property, it may not always reflect its precise location, therefore please only use this map as a guide.

3 more properties at this location

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The Lily Pad - Norfolk

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To arrange group bookings across one or more of these properties, call our team to check availability and book.

Norfolk Cottages is a trading name of The Travel Chapter Limited | The Travel Chapter Limited is registered in England and Wales. | Registered office Travel Chapter House, Gammaton Road, Bideford, EX39 4DF. Company No. 02431506 | VAT reg: 143053210.