The Water Cabin, Broads National Park, Norfolk

This immaculately conceived two-bedroom cabin on the River Thurne is the perfect Norfolk Broads retreat. Built in the 1930s, the cedar-clad structure has undergone a comprehensive renovation by the current designer owners, who have extended the space to around 650 sq ft. Situated in front of a 32 ft boat dyke, with over 60ft of river frontage, there is also a private decked terrace and garden. The house has been operating as a successful holiday let, details of which can be shared on request.

Please note: This house is registered as a holiday home and cannot be occupied full-time or let on an Assured Shorthold Tenancy. It can be occupied for a maximum period of 50 weeks per annum.

The Tour

Set back around 200 metres from the private car park, the cabin is accessed by a path that runs between the river and established hedgerows. The entrance leads directly into the bright dining room, which has built-in storage. There is an abundance of natural light from the south-facing picture window and cleverly placed skylight.

The owners' deft use of space is exemplified by the galley kitchen, which was carved out in the walkway between the living spaces. The generous living area is triple-aspect and faces onto the lawned garden, the mooring and the river.

The westerly-facing bedrooms have large aluminium glazing and wood panelling along the walls. In the main bedroom, there is a porthole window that nods to the nautical surroundings. An original door from the dining room leads to the fresh white bathroom with a double-ended bath and walk-in shower; here, a thoughtfully placed skylight encourages stargazing during a soak.

The cabin was modernised with sustainability and energy efficiency in mind, and more recently, solar panels have also been added to the roof.

Outside Space

Fencing and evergreen grasses line the 60 sq ft private lawned area. Decking stretches out from a white-painted veranda to the waterfront with plenty of space for a table and chairs. A hammock completes the carefree atmosphere, and a shed is tucked away providing a practical place for storage.

The Area

Situated in the bucolic village of Repps with Bastwick, the riverside location is perfect for exploring the breadth of the River Thurne, taking in the reed-fringed Thurne Mouth and Womack Dyke, which has an access dyke to the picturesque village of Ludham. Part of the Norfolk Broads, the river connects with Hickling Broad, Horsey and Martham Broad Nature Reserve.

There are a host of beautiful, unspoilt beaches to explore in under 15 minutes’ drive, including Winterton-on-Sea, which has thatched roundhouses inspired by the beach huts of Hermanus Bay in South Africa, as well as seal watching and the excellent Fisherman's Return pub. Great Yarmouth’s long sandy beachfront and bustling activities are under a 30-minute drive away.

There are a host of excellent dining options in the area. Steeped in history, the Stoke Mill is an award-winning restaurant within a restored mill that was the birthplace of Colman’s mustard, on the River Tas. The Gunton Arms is a favourite in the region and has an impressive YBA art collection lining the walls including works by Tracey Emin and Damien Hurst. Dollie’s Bakery in Ludham has a superb selection of pastries, while the Bridge Store is ideal for stocking up on essentials.

Norwich city centre is around a 40-minute drive away and has a direct train to London in an hour and 40 minutes. The A143 and A11 are close by and connect to the national motorway.

Tenure: Underlease
Lease: Approx. 61 years remaining
Ground Rent: approx. £5 per annum
Council Tax Band: A. Currently council tax exempt as the house is regularly rented as holiday home accommodation