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Eton Lodge - Hunstanton

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Cosy seaside B&B

The seaside resort of Hunstanton might not be your first thought when it comes to chic weekend destinations. And there’s no getting away from the fact that it’s leaning ever so slightly towards Saga central, with a sprinkling of Butlins-style magic thrown in for the ‘young folk’. But ignore the grey and bucket-and-spade brigades and you won’t help but notice that not only is Hunstanton quite a fun place to stay. Not only does it have miles of sandy and award-winning beach that is spot on for long, romantic strolls (or a donkey ride if you’re that way inclined), a traditional promenade fun fair and a pier, but Hunstanton is also the perfect base for exploring the best that North Norfolk has to offer.

In the midst of all Hunstanton’s jollity, sits the stylish and relaxing B&B that is Eton Lodge. Recently named as one of the five best budget B&Bs in the country, it has turned the scary idea of a traditional seaside guest house on its head, offering modern and sumptuous rooms, with gleaming en-suites and lots of nice little touches – fresh milk in your own mini fridge, proper power showers, fresh fruit, free internet access and DVD players among them. And all of this at a fraction of the price of other places to stay in the area.

Breakfast is great – plentiful and making great use of local produce – and you can even opt for the Eton Lodge special of salmon and scrambled egg if you’re feeling posh.

Where is it?

Hunstanton is to the west of the North Norfolk Coastline, and a good jumping off point for exploring. Walkers will love the miles and miles of beach stretching out from the pier and away from the madding crowd, backed by coloured cliffs, pine forests and sand dunes.

Otherwise, jump in your car to enjoy the pretty towns and villages North Norfolk has to offer. The Royal holiday home at Sandringham (www.sandringham-estate.co.uk Tel: 01553 612908) is just 10 miles from Hunstanton, and is a great place for a potter. If the thought of rummaging through the Queen’s stamp collection doesn’t float your boat, the acres and acres of gardens and country park are a lovely place to while away the time.

But all the best spots on the North Norfolk Coastline are within easy reach. The pretty town of Burnham Market is just fifteen minutes’ drive away, while the glorious miles of sandy beach at Holkham, famous for its starring role as a Caribbean island in Shakespeare in Love, can be reached in less than half an hour. Click on to The Weekenders Guide to North Norfolk for a full run-down of what to see and where to eat in the area.

Where can I eat?

For fish, chips and candyfloss, you can do no better than Hunstanton promenade, but if you fancy something that requires a knife and fork, the best restaurant in town is The Neptune Inn (www.theneptune.co.uk Tel: 01485 532122), a mile out of the centre in pretty Old Hunstanton. This well-regarded gastro pub offers a fresh and vibrant menu of British classics with a twist, such as hare ravioli for a starter, or roast chicken, with sweet potato and deep-fried black pudding as a main course. And, of course, the puddings are to die for.

Venture a little further, and you could try the famous The Victoria at Holkham (www.holkham.co.uk/victoria Tel: 01328 711008). The restaurant at this luxurious hotel is sumptuous to say the least, and makes for a special night out.

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Recently named as one of the five best budget B&Bs in the country, Eton House brings wallet-friendly style and luxury to a traditional British seaside resort.