A Norfolk seaside holiday cottage ‘Gem’…
About Hidden Gem and Winterton-on-Sea...
Built in 1908 No. 2 May cottages was formally a fisherman's cottage. Winterton on Sea is an ancient village with one of the earliest recordings being in the Domesday book of 1086. Historically, the main activities in the village were split between fishing and farming but it was the former in which Winterton on Sea men excelled.
As well as longshore fishing the village men of the 1800's saw salvage work as a lucrative business. Known as 'Beachmen' they would look out for ships in distress and thus would begin a race to reach the stricken vessel and retrieve the cargo before rival beachmen from nearby villages such as Happisburgh and Caister. Reminders of the fishing hey-days can be found in the many old photos on display in the Coastguard Watch Tower at the top of the beach.
Winterton-on-Sea's Parish Church is a magnificent building, with one of the tallest church towers in Norfolk, rising over 130 feet. Elements of the church date from the 13th century, with the tower being built around 200 years later.
As dog lovers we have had many holidays in Norfolk over the years and Winterton on Sea was one of our favourite destinations, not only us but our four legged family members too! In 2016 we stumbled upon 2 May cottages up for sale. The cottage was in need of lots of TLC, it was hard work but has been so rewarding to hear that so many guests have enjoyed their stays and we are delighted so my guests have rebooked, some every year since we opened in March 2017.
We are so lucky to have the all year round dog friendly beach on our door step, long summer days to explore the miles of dunes, beautiful sunrise and sunsets, amazing star lit skies, chilling out in a very comfy conservatory with a peaceful and secure courtyard garden great for reading, glass of wine, coffee & cake or just listening to bird song, with winter evenings spent by the cosy log fire. We have plenty of board games, DVD's and Netflix for entertainment in the cottage. A very dog friendly pub The Fisherman's Return serving food, a café/tea shop Poppy's, great fish 'n' chips, grocery shop and post office all within a few minutes walk.
There are plenty of walks around the village, further afield, along the coast (all details and maps are in the cottage). Why not borrow our binoculars and go exploring the wonderful surrounding wildlife across the Winterton Dunes Nature reserve, it's a bird watchers delight and a haven for wildlife with tern and seal colonies in residence, along with the rare Natterjack toad.
Day boat hire can be great fun too and only a short drive to find the nearest dog friendly boat hire at Potter Heigham or Martham. All information, websites, contact details of places to visit, places to eat & drink are at Hidden Gem, or pack up a picnic and pop it into the cool box, everything at hand to help you have a wonderful holiday.
Laura & Pete, Owners
