Wroxham – considered the capital of the broads – was busy with the usual throng of tourists as our Sat Nav directed us down a quiet tree-lined avenue. As we turned into the driveway of Broad House hotel and got our first sight of the 18th century Queen Anne residence and its impressive grounds, the last remnants of stress seemed to dissipate. There was so much space we felt removed from the grind of daily life and for a destination as popular as the Norfolk broads that is no mean feat.  

This unique boutique hotel was bought by current owners Philip and Caroline Search in 2006 and opened its doors in 2007. There are nine comfortably furnished rooms all with adequate facilities and most with views of the grounds.

Each of the rooms has been named after the family members to whom they belonged and this is a nice little touch. Andrew’s room had traditional furnishings whereas the bathroom was modern, gleaming with chrome and housed an indulgently large triangular bath.

Andrew’s room, along with three others, are classified as dog-friendly. We took our two dogs and found that it was far from ideal for dogs with no direct access to the garden or grounds. With plans to convert the barn next door into dog-friendly accommodation that looks set to change.

With such extensive grounds it is delightfully easy to find a little nook or cranny away from everyone else, whether it’s taking a wander over to the hotel’s quiet little quay or just strolling through the woodland. Beautifully kept, there are paths woven throughout for ease of exploring the 50 species of trees and general abundance of flora, fauna and wildlife.

With woodland and an eight acre meadow, this much space is ideal if you have kids or even canine companions who need to work off some energy. After a bracing stroll with our dogs we headed back to the hotel and sipped beer in the garden while other guests cheerily played croquet. The 18th Century building watched over us and for a second it seemed as though I had taken a step back in time; an increasingly rare sensation these days and I enjoyed it while it lasted.

Food was served in the Trafford Restaurant – named after the previous owners, distant relatives of the Manchester United Traffords – and is a popular destination among the locals as well as hotel guests. The food was delightfully fresh and full of flavour. The traditional and contemporary British-style menu makes excellent use of quality local Norfolk seasonal produce as well as from the hotel’s own substantial market garden. Expect fresh and great tasting dishes like Rump of Norfolk beef and Wild Sea Trout complete with some interesting sauces and garnishes.

Broad House offers staying guests a fresh and hearty breakfast. If you feel hungry after lunch then afternoon teas are also on offer.

There is even a heli-pad and with weddings a speciality, the bride can choose to arrive by boat at the hotel’s private mooring (boats can be hired from hotel). Along with plans to convert the adjacent barn, Broad House seems to be evolving to satisfy ever changing customer needs, but in the hands of the current owners there seems to be no danger of it losing its heart.

Andrew’s room – B&B tariff from : £175 (Sun - Thur) || £195 (Fri - Sat) per room, per night. B&B prices range from £160 for a modest sized room to £259 for a four-poster bed in The Lady Betty suite in the Queen Anne wing of the house.