Why Norfolk’s second homes are first choice
Norfolk’s other world charms have attracted multiple famous people to buy a retreat in the county including most famously William and Kate, who have recently been putting the finishing touches to their new home on the Queen’s 20,000-acre Sandringham estate.
But let’s not forget those who have already invested in Norfolk; John Hurt in Cromer, Amanda Holden near Burnham Market, Bill Bryson in Wramplingham, Martin Shaw in Hingham, Stephen Fry in West Bilney and John Major in the coastal village of Weybourne.
There are many reasons why such high profile people love Norfolk; high up their list of significance when investing in Norfolk property are our countryside, incredible coastline and weather. The environment agency recently revealed that East Anglia is 34% drier, 6% hotter and 6% sunnier than the rest of England and Wales, and our efficient train services and roads now put a weekend break (and affordable property) within easy reach.
However, the Norfolk coast is the biggest draw and most of my clients looking for a second home want a bolt hole on or very near the sea and, they ask me, which villages are best? Here’s my list from a property finder perspective as well as personal opinion on what each village has to offer;
Blakeney
With its eponymous National Nature Reserve nearby, Blakeney was recently included in the Sunday Times 101 best places to live in the UK and is also much feted for its famous Wiveton Hall Café and the Seal Boat trips that start from Blakeney Point.
What can you buy? Three bedroom cottage, £335,000
Wells-next-the Sea
A substantial seaport between Holkham and Blakeney, Wells is best known for its picturesque harbour, historic houses and two privately-run railways. The town suffered heavily during the 1953 floods, alongside the town’s neighbourhoods, and consequently many of its houses feature substantial flood defences.
What can you buy? In the beautiful seaport of Wells-next-the-Sea, known for it’s serene harbour, a three bedroom townhouse is currently available for £425,000
Brancaster
On the extreme north west of the Norfolk coast, Brancaster is joined to two other villages (Staithe and Burnham Deepdale) and overlooks a large sandy beach and harbour, off which there’s a famous WWII wreck sticking out of the sand.
What can you buy? In the extremely popular destination of Brancaster, prices take in to account the desirable views and idyllic location. On the market currently, a large five-bedroom detached house is selling for £2.8m
The Burnhams
If you want to go celeb spotting then drop in on Burnham Market but there are a clutch of other ‘Burnhams’ nearby including Burnham Thorpe, which is the birthplace of Horatio Nelson.
What can you buy? Due to the popularity of this location, you may feel you are getting less for your money than if you were to buy in Wells-next-the-Sea as on the market currently, a one-bedroom converted chapel is priced at £425,000.
Winterton
This village is historically best known for its eye-catching beach in front of the large dunes that protected the area from high tides.
What can you buy? With the serene beach view, a four bedroom detached house is currently on the market and available for £325,000
Morston
A small village half way between Sheringham and Wells, famous for its National Trust-owned quay, surrounding salt marshes and gorgeous vistas.
What can you buy? Another small village, nestled between two well-known towns, you can currently find a four bedroom cottage on the market for £399,000
Sheringham
This substantial town has the benefit of being served by a railway line, which has kept it bustling since the late 19th century. Because it’s under an hour by train to Norwich, property prices remain high locally.
What can I buy? With the desirable and efficient travel links, a two bedroom garden flat is currently on the market for £360,000
Norfolk villages and towns can cater for a spectrum of property desires as well as each location bringing its own desirable features. You can escape the bustle of the city by surrounding yourself in splendid rural isolation or investing in a second property on the Norfolk coast. Boutique shopping, fine dining, picturesque harbours and sandy beaches make Norfolk a first class choice for a second home.
If you have a property-related enquiry regarding Norfolk or need the help of a Norfolk-based property finder, contact Garrington Property Finders now.
