A Wonderful Weekend in Wymondham - Pillar Box House

Curling up with a book next to an open fire after an evening watching the stars from the hot tub is a wonderful way to spend a winters evening. We travelled to Wymondham towards the end of last year for a family break and it was one of the most relaxing getaways I've experienced. To the extent that I've already been looking to book a return trip with Cottages.com for the Easter break.

The rural location was perfect for us as we could enjoy the wildlife and peaceful walks with Spartan each day, pets are welcome to stay at Pillar Box House for no additional fee, yet it was also reasonably close to the beach and attractions there.

The property itself is detached and was like a home from home with all of the essential tools and equipment required, including an incredible stove, for cooking a family feast. There was also a washing machine in case you fancy sorting your laundry before travelling home and if you do wish to share a photo or two online with loved ones (who doesn't like to brag that they are having a wonderful time?) there is wifi available.

Upon pulling up in the driveway and entering the pastel pink building into the reception hall, we were rather shocked by the size of it. At first glance outside it doesn't appear huge but looks are certainly deceiving as there are 4 large bedrooms spread across the first and second floor, a good sized bathroom, plenty of storage space, plus an additional en-suite, shower room and dressing area.

On the ground floor there is a large kitchen diner which opens out onto a pretty patio and garden with furniture and a luxurious lounge area where we spent a lot of time relaxing. It would be ideal for several couples to enjoy together or even a very large family/two families to share - there really is just so much room to explore and it sleeps 8 without getting under anyone's feet.

The Mini Mes shared the twin bedroom which had a beautiful beamed ceiling, like much of the rest of the property, whereas I slept in a cosy double room at the top of the stairs. Being an old building the floors are a little uneven and creaky at times but this added to the feel of Pillar Box House along with the pretty antiques, artwork and traditional decor throughout.

We all felt very relaxed and almost in a world of our own as it was so peaceful.

On the first evening we arrived quite late, coming straight from the school run on a Friday afternoon, so once the fire was lit I began dinner with the groceries we took with us (saucy mascarpone and bacon gnocchi). It was lovely having everything to hand and we also loved the unexpected welcome pack consisting of quality food and drink to devour. Thumbs up for the wine - it's the little touches like this that make such a difference to a holiday. 

We all sat around the beautiful table for a chat before loading the dishwasher, putting our swimwear on and heading outside to the private hot tub. This is one of the main reasons I selected this particular accommodation and it didn't fail to please! It's not overlooked at all and it was easy to control the bubbles and temperature. It was also useful having plastic cups in the kitchen as it meant I didn't have to worry about balancing any glasses outside in the dark.

 There are original features in place, like the narrow staircases, which add so much character to the building. Logs are included to burn in the fire and you can pick up extras at the supermarket just a few minutes away if necessary, although we didn't need to. 

There is a magical reading area in the reception area which reminded me of the library in Beauty and the Beast on a slightly smaller scale, my favourite Disney movie, and also a collection of DVDs, CDs and games in the antique dresser in the lounge which are ideal for rainy days. 

There really is everything you could possibly need available for you.

 We spent the majority of our time at Pillar Box House simply unwinding and escaping the hustle and bustle of work which was wonderful for us. I can't remember the last time when I've really stepped away from the laptop and put my feet up and this was the perfect opportunity to do just that. We did of course explore a little but with such a cosy base to return to we didn't venture that far, just to Great Yarmouth for a couple of hours and around the local fields with the dog.

Prices start from around £500 for 7 nights although you can book 3 nights for a long weekend or a midweek break if you prefer. I would highly recommend a stay here whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or to enjoy the nearby golf and fishing facilities - I would most definitely return for a second stay.

Have you had a break with Cottages.com yet?