Backwater

• Sleeps: 8
• Bedrooms: 4
• Bathrooms: 2
• Minimum stay: 3-4 nights

Backwater’s peaceful and exceptionally scenic position in Wroxham, at the heart of the Norfolk Broads, means the first thing you can expect from your stay is outstanding views from just about every angle.

Beautifully located on a private lagoon and gently raised above the waterline, Backwater was designed by the award-winning architectural practice Platform 5 Architects. The result is an elegant timber framed, four bedroomed home that perfectly complements its natural surroundings.

The pitched roof bays and shingle cladding pay homage to the local boatsheds, offering stunning views of the ever-changing lagoon, while the sheltered outdoor area, connected with the living and dining spaces, means you can enjoy al fresco drinks at any time of year. Cradle a glass of fizz as you watch swans glide past, watch the local otter family as they play at the water edge, or observe dragonflies fluttering over the waterlilies – this is the perfect antidote to your hectic life back home!

The quality of Backwater’s design is apparent from the moment you arrive. Light-filled, neutral-toned and cosily furnished throughout, this is a home that’s built for rest and relaxation – with plenty of unique features you’ll want to explore straight away. The main entrance opens out into a large hallway, where a magnificent spiralling staircase, leading through a skylit, double-height space, is waiting to greet you.

Head up that staircase to be welcomed with a cosy twin bedroom and a spacious master bedroom, complete with king-sized bed and a walk-in shower. A bathroom and two more bedrooms are nestled on the ground floor in their very own bedroom wing, complete with superb views of the reed beds and jetty outside.

Meanwhile, you’ll find the well-equipped kitchen and a sociable dining area in the central bay, complete with sliding glass doors to capitalise on those views! Finish your meal, then head to the double-height lounge space to relax in front of a warming central fireplace. You’ll find an elevated library here too, complete with a comfy day bed – what better time to catch up on your reading?

Of course, with Backwater representing the best in cutting-edge architectural design, you can expect plenty of contemporary additions. Think underfloor heating and supreme insulation, think water purification, think triple-glazed windows, and think huge, sliding doors that cleverly compartmentalise the different spaces in the home.

At a glance

• Award winning architect-designed family home with exceptional views, set on a secluded lagoon in Wroxham – known as Norfolk’s ‘Capital of the Broads’.
• Backwater is set within two hours of London, with parking available for up to three cars. There is room for a boat to be moored on the east deck.
• Please note that while children are welcome, the property has water on three sides and is unguarded. Care must be taken to supervise children at all times.
• Take a scenic boat tour, or indulge in the many walking trails nearby that lead to the area’s local villages.

Features

• Disability Accessible
• Family Friendly
• Large Groups

More information

You may not feel like venturing out at all, yet if you do, there is a wealth of Norfolk wonder to explore. If you’re a would-be sailor, you can take advantage of the Canadian canoe which is made available to guests to use at their own risk and paddle through the idyllic narrow waterways or explore the scenic broad. There is also space to moor your own boat along Backwater’s east deck, providing easy access to Wroxham Broad – known as the Capital of the Broads – and the River Bure.

Let somebody else do the sailing with a scenic boat tour, while those who prefer travelling on two feet can explore the Riverside Park, located along the River Bure.  Complete with lush greenery, it’s an ideal setting for picnicking as you watch the boats go by. If you prefer shopping, take the Bure Valley Railway through the countryside to Aylsham, where you’ll find some fantastic independent shops to browse through – or the city of Norwich is just 8 miles away offering yet more opportunities for shopping, restaurants and entertainment.

Messing about on the river doesn’t get more luxurious than this, so if you appreciate the finer things in life…well you’ll soon find things don’t come very much finer than those you’ll discover at Backwater, both inside and out.

Things to note

A cot and highchair are available on request. The property welcomes children but due to the property being surrounded by water on three sides they must be supervised at all times whilst on the deck area. There is a mooring on the east deck should you decide to bring your own boat. Check in from 4pm, departure from 10am. No pets are permitted. No smoking. Changeover days are usually Monday and Friday. Prices for long weekend, Fri to Mon, start from £1045 (off peak season) to £2320 (high season); mid-week, Mon to Fri, from £795 (off peak season) to £1750 (high season).