Thursford Castle
Great Snoring, Norfolk, UK
Nestled away in the pretty coastal countryside sits a striking architectural love story between heritage and modernity - where the romance of a restored Gothic chapel meets the quiet confidence of contemporary design. There is a subtle poetry to the contrast throughout - ancient materials beside modern forms, dramatic proportions softened by wild planting and natural light. The result is a retreat that feels timeless rather than traditional; soulful, sculptural and deeply connected to its surroundings.
Thursford Castle can also be booked alongside The Cabin and/or The Walled Garden, should you be looking for a larger group stay with family and friends to accommodate groups of up to 12 guests, all within the same stunning grounds.Introduction
An architectural gem shaped by the landscape that hugs it, Thursford Castle evolves beautifully with the rhythm of the seasons, cocooning and atmospheric through winter, yet light-filled and expansive beneath endless summer skies. Blending historic character with contemporary design, the retreat creates a seamless dialogue between indoors and out, where soaring brick arches, expansive glass and flourishing gardens invite nature into every corner of the home.
Inside
Inside, Thursford Castle is a masterclass in understated luxury - an artfully balanced blend of rustic warmth, contemporary craftsmanship and relaxed country living. Expansive open-plan spaces are softened by natural textures and earthy tones, where exposed timber beams, polished concrete floors and handcrafted furniture create a sense of effortless sophistication. Industrial-inspired lighting and dark steel detailing add depth and contrast, while vast sliding glass doors flood the interiors with natural light and frame uninterrupted views of the surrounding gardens.
The kitchen and dining spaces are designed for gathering together; generous, atmospheric and deeply connected to the outdoors. Rich timber textures, soft ambient lighting and tactile finishes create an inviting warmth that shifts beautifully from bright mornings to intimate candlelit evenings. Throughout the property, every room feels intentionally curated yet wonderfully relaxed, striking the perfect balance between architectural design and home comforts.
The bedrooms offer a quieter sense of style, calming neutral palettes, soft layered linens and carefully chosen furnishings that evoke the feel of a boutique countryside retreat. Bathrooms continue the same refined aesthetic, combining spa-like simplicity with natural materials, warm stone tones and decadent finishing touches that encourage moments of calm and escapism.
Elsewhere, you’ll find hidden reading nooks and tranquil garden-facing spaces made for moments alone to pause, unwind and fully immerse in the slower rhythm of life at Thursford Castle.
Outside
Designed in a contemporary quadrangle around a tranquil inner courtyard, this private alfresco space effortlessly blurs the boundary between indoor and outdoor living, allowing the landscape to become part of the home itself. Bi-fold doors open directly onto the courtyard from multiple rooms creating a sun-soaked dreamy terrace, with soft gravel pathways and architectural planting, where contemporary design sits in perfect contrast to the rich character of the historic chapel façade. Framed by soaring brick arches, sculptural greenery and expansive glazing, the space feels wonderfully atmospheric throughout the day, think first espressos of the day over conversations planning the days adventures, or drawn out supper parties gathered beneath Norfolk’s famous big skies.Beyond the courtyard, sweeping lawns and mature trees create a softer sense of escape, with peaceful pockets of shade and beautifully curated gardens to wander.
Guests can also enjoy the wood-fired sauna and outdoor shower, adding a luxurious spa-like element to countryside stays. Designed by renowned sauna specialists Konga and handcrafted in Lithuania, this architect-designed sauna was one of the first of its kind in the UK, bringing authentic Nordic sauna culture to the heart of North Norfolk. Available exclusively for private hire as an add-on to your stay, the sauna comfortably seats up to four guests and offers a wonderfully relaxing way to unwind during your escape. Private sauna sessions are available at £65 per session.
Key Features
Sleeps
Room Descriptions
The Chapel Entrance & Glazed Hallway
Arrival at Thursford Castle is unlike anywhere else. Guests enter through the breathtaking ancient Gothic chapel, much of which now stands open to the skies above, softened by carefully planted borders and natural greenery that bring life and tranquillity to the historic ruins. The original chapel walls seamlessly transition into a striking glazed hallway, creating a dramatic architectural statement and setting the tone for the rest of the property. This atmospheric entrance beautifully showcases the fusion of heritage and contemporary design that defines the house.Living Areas
At the heart of Thursford Castle lies a spectacular open-plan kitchen, dining and living area designed for sociable living and effortless entertaining. Framed by huge sliding glazed doors overlooking the peaceful courtyard garden, the space is flooded with natural light throughout the day while maintaining a wonderfully calm and grounded atmosphere.Kitchen
The kitchen combines contemporary finishes with characterful architectural details, including exposed brick walls and beautiful timber beams overhead. Fully equipped for relaxed family suppers or celebratory feasts, it offers generous preparation space alongside everything needed for a luxurious self-catered stay.
Dining Area
A large dining table sits centrally within the living space, perfectly positioned for long, leisurely meals overlooking the courtyard. Beyond this, the comfortable lounge area invites guests to sink into deep sofas gathered around the wall-mounted television, while the Sonos sound system enhances the atmosphere throughout the space.
Lounge
At its centre, a striking double-sided wood-burning fireplace creates warmth and ambience, making the house equally inviting during cosy winter weekends and cooler coastal evenings.
The Snug
Positioned on the opposite side of the double-sided fireplace, the snug offers a wonderfully cosy retreat away from the main social spaces. Designed for quieter moments, this intimate room features comfortable seating, a 65-inch television with Sonos surround sound and a calming atmosphere perfect for film nights, reading or simply unwinding after a day exploring the Norfolk coast.
Wellness Room
Take time to relax, recharge and stay active during your stay with access to our dedicated Wellness Room. This bright and peaceful space is equipped with a water rower, free weights, yoga mats and a professional massage table, offering everything you need for a workout, stretching session or moment of mindfulness.
Please note: The Wellness Room and all equipment are provided for guest convenience and are used entirely at your own risk. Guests are responsible for ensuring they are able to use the equipment safely. Children must be supervised at all times when in the Wellness Room. The property owner accepts no liability for any injury, accident or loss arising from the use of the room or its equipment.
Study & Additional Spaces
For guests wishing to work remotely or simply enjoy a quieter corner of the house, Thursford Castle also features a dedicated study space alongside additional seating areas tucked throughout the property. These smaller hideaways offer peaceful spots to read, catch up on emails or simply pause and take in the unique surroundings.
Utility Room
A separate laundry room with washing machine and tumble dryer adds further practicality for longer stays.
Bedrooms and Bathrooms
Master Bedroom Suite: Privately positioned away from the remaining bedrooms and accessed via the glazed hallway near the chapel entrance, the master suite is a luxurious sanctuary designed for complete relaxation and enjoys a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere overlooking the surrounding grounds. The room features a sumptuous super king-size bed dressed in crisp linens, wardrobe, chest of drawers, dressing table with chair, and a ceiling fan. The en suite bathroom is beautifully appointed and includes a stunning freestanding bath, creating the perfect space to unwind after long days spent exploring the coast and countryside.Bedroom 2: Located along the rear hallway of the house, this elegant king-size bedroom is furnished with a beautiful sleigh bed, built-in wardrobe and chest of drawers, offering ample storage for longer stays. A relaxed seating area provides the perfect spot to unwind with a morning coffee or a good book. The contemporary en suite features a large walk-in rainfall shower with an additional hand-held shower option, hand basin and WC, creating a stylish and practical space to refresh and recharge.
Bedroom 3: Situated along the rear hallway of the house, this beautifully presented twin bedroom offers a relaxing and comfortable retreat. The room features 2 full-size single beds (which can be put together to make a super king upon request), built-in wardrobe, and a dressing table complete with chair and mirror, providing plenty of space to prepare for the day ahead. A comfortable armchair creates a cosy spot to relax and unwind. The contemporary en suite bathroom is fitted with a bath and handheld shower attachment, hand basin, heated towel rail and WC, offering both comfort and convenience during your stay.
Bedroom 4: This king-size bedroom combines comfort and practicality with elegant furnishings and a welcoming atmosphere. Beautifully appointed, the room features a king-size bed, ample storage with a built-in wardrobe, and a dedicated dressing area with a mirror and chair. A plush armchair offers a quiet corner to sit back and relax. The stylish en suite bathroom is fitted with a contemporary walk-in rainfall shower, complemented by a separate hand-held shower attachment, alongside a hand basin and WC, providing everything needed for a comfortable stay.
Property Includes
- Dog Friendly - Maximum 2 Dogs- £50 Per Dog
- Ground Floor Shower Room
- Off Road Parking - Secure parking for several vehicles
- WiFi
- Enclosed Garden
- Child Friendly
- Ground Floor Bedroom
- Log Burner / Open Fire
- BBQ - Gas
- As seen on Channel 4’s Extraordinary Escapes with Sandi Toksvig
- Peaceful location
- 15-min drive to the coast
- Private courtyard garden with fire pit
- Sonos sound system in kitchen/living space
- Wood-fired sauna + outdoor shower available to book - £65 for a 1 hour session - subject to availability
- 2 e-bikes available to hire - £30 per bike per day - subject to availability
Pets
Arrivals & Departures
Arrival Time: 4pm
Departure Time: 10am
Additional Extras
- Complimentary Welcome Hamper
- Norfolk Natural Living Toiletries
- Adult Bathrobes and Slippers
- Fluffy Towels and Luxury Linens
- Large Basket of Logs and Kindling Supplied Year Round - an additional large basket of logs can be purchased for £35
Availability
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