An architect-designed ‘happy place' by the sea, set behind the sand dunes in a Norfolk Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
  • Sleeps: 6
  • Bedrooms: 3
  • Bathrooms: 2
  • Minimum stay: 3 nights

If you were going to create your very own Shangri-La, you could choose no finer UK location than Waxham to do it.

An enchanting hamlet in East Norfolk, Waxham’s beautifully unspoilt beach is frequently mentioned as one of the country’s finest. The Norfolk Broads are also within ridiculously easy reach, making this the ideal location for exploring the wildlife-strewn best of this unique region.

A stylish re-imagining of the traditional wood-built coastal chalet set within an acre of lush grounds, the three-bedroom Shangri-La was designed by award-winning Mole Architects to maximise its stunning surroundings. Imagine the luxury of a 5-star hotel, with one of Norfolk’s best beaches as the backdrop.

You won’t even need to leave the house to enjoy spectacularly uninterrupted views across the coastal plain and out towards the Broads, and as the house is built to rigorous Passivhaus standards, you’ll even be helping the environment while enjoying your luxury stay.

South-facing windows and high vaulted ceilings provide glorious light and space, while immaculate oak flooring and washed plywood walls add elegance to your seaside break. High-end additions that include Miele kitchen appliances, Duravit bathroom suites, Hansgrohe showers, indulgently fluffy towels and heavy Egyptian cotton linen mean you’ll be living in luxury, blissfully surrounded by modern furnishings and vibrant pops of colour. At the touch of a button, open the electrically operated skylight, lie back in the bath and listen to the waves breaking on the beach.

Ideal for indulgent family breaks, you’ll find plenty of space for everyone to enjoy just as they like. The sociable open-plan living, dining and bespoke cooking area is perfect for morning and evening gatherings, bordered by spectacular views. Meanwhile, a separate snug with TV and games is the setting for the more competitive types amongst your group!  

Outside, you’ll find a huge grassy area the kids will enjoy tiring themselves out in, along with shaded areas for relaxation and al-fresco dining. Observing the huge, dark skies the area is famous for is a real treat here, too.

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At a glance

  • Luxurious three bedroom home, designed by award-winning Mole Architects in the style of a traditional beachfront chalet.
  • Set behind the sand dunes within an acre of lush grounds in Waxham, East Norfolk.
  • The house connects with a public footpath that leads straight to Waxham beach, frequently cited as one of the finest beaches in the UK.
  • There is excellent disabled access, and the house has been designed to rigorous Passivhaus standards, ensuring energy is maximised and helping the local environment.
  • An excellent base for wildlife-watching and exploring the Norfolk Broads, with the city of Norwich accessible in a half-hour drive.

Features

  • Disability Accessible
  • Dog Friendly
  • Family Friendly
  • Seaside Breaks

Facilities

Sleeps up to 6, 1 king ensuite bedroom, 1 king bedroom, twin bedroom, bedding & towels provided, family bathroom, hairdryer, bathroom amenities, fully equipped kitchen, blender, coffee machine, cooking utensils, grill, dishwasher, stove, microwave, oven, fridge, toaster, spices, washing machine, clothes dryer, iron & board, heating, hoover, open plan living/dining area, TV/games room, stereo system, telephone, WiFi, private terrace, garden, parking.

Local activities

Beaches, kayaking, coastal walks, Norfolk Broads, bird sanctuaries, nature reserves, fishing, cycling, golf, railways, hiking, mountain biking, boating, seal viewing.

More information

Two of the three bedrooms feature a cosy king-sized bed, and come complete with glazed doors that lead out to a covered south-facing terrace (an idyllic spot for morning coffee) and the third bedroom is a twin room.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast in the morning, and then why not head for the beach? It’d be rude not to really, when all you need to do is take the public footpath that connects the house with the beach. For those who enjoy swimming you may not be alone as the friendly seals will often swim by to see what is going on. The nearby beach at Sea Palling, just 20 minutes walk along the beach, has Blue Flag status and lifeguards during the summer months. You’ll find the exhilarating coastal path runs in a field around the house too, so those who enjoy a bracing walk are in for a real treat.

Bird and seal watchers will enjoy a visit to nearby Horsey, which is also a wonderful gateway to the Broads. Take a wildlife boat trip for an immersive journey through this flourishing area.

You’ll find charming Norfolk pubs within a ten-minute drive, including the Ingham Swan, a fine dining restaurant set in a fifteenth-century coaching inn – if you’re celebrating something special, this is the place. Oh, and with the city of Norwich accessible within half an hour, shopping and sightseeing are more than covered.

For those who need their creature comforts even when getting away from it all, there is a multi-speaker Sonos system in the living area, large smart TVs and on arrival a luxury hamper packed with Norfolk goodies and other essentials such as Nespresso capsules. If you really have to work, hook up to the Wi-fi and fire up your laptop but don’t forget that beach…

It’s high time you upgraded your family seaside break to something a little more indulgent, and with a location this magnificent, and a house that’s bursting with so much style and luxury, you’ll find Shangri-La really does exist.

Things to note

Two well behaved dogs are welcome. No smoking. Minimum three night stays.

Where you'll be staying

Waxham, Norfolk

What the guests of Shangri-La House say

“Wow! What a fantastic house and super location! We had a wonderful, relaxing stay – we enjoyed taking long walks with our dog Barney along the beach and coastal path (amazing to see the local seal population), and we loved watching the birds and deer. The house itself is thoughtfully designed and provides a calm and relaxing environment. The kitchen is beautifully equipped and the welcome box was fabulous (the best we’ve ever encountered). Barney appreciated the dog biscuits too. We shall definitely return!”

“This is the most amazing house in a wonderful location! We couldn’t believe how lucky we were to find it. Thank you so much for the welcome box, much appreciated. We came to Waxham as my daughter is getting married in the Barn next year and we wanted to look around. So pleased we have chosen this area. We are lucky enough to have booked Shangri-la for this special occasion and can’t wait to return. Thank you so much!”

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