Smack bang in the centre of
Norfolk, surrounded by perfectly manicured gardens and acres of parkland, sits the charming Hockering House, home of the Berney family. Bordered by ageing oaks,
Gorsey Meadow is a new campsite in the grounds of the estate and, with the
opening day of their first season just moments away, Hipcamp peered
through the trees for a sneaky first glimpse of what’s on offer.
Made up of five bell
tents (pre-pitched to order), Gorsey Meadow is a tranquil site where wildlife is the most
frequent resident. Garden birds flutter through the long grass, barn owls
and pheasants hoot from the woods, and deer stand camouflaged amongst the trees. The five tents are accompanied by two newly built huts, one housing
the compost loo, the other housing the piping hot eco-shower, and are furnished
with air beds and bedding, vintage furnishings, gas hobs and a BBQ, along with plenty of kitchen utensils. Those willing to
forego such luxuries can also pitch their own tents in the meadow, making use of the ample space available.
While huddling around the
campfire or knocking a ball about on the Hockering House tennis court are
relaxing ways to pass the time onsite, Gorsey Meadows is also well placed for
exploring the rest of Norfolk. The county city of Norwich is a 20 minute drive
away, while the pleasant local market town of Dereham has an attractive
independent feel and hosts a large market every Friday. Further afield the outstanding
North Norfolk coast, with its sweeping beaches and patchwork of dunes, marshes
and forests, is just over half an hour by car and well worthy of a seaside day trip.
Gorsey Meadow may be a new
campsite, but in its timeless rural setting you’ll feel it was always destined
to be. The well-furnished bell tents and colourful wildflowers beckon you
down the tree lined driveway to the private field that has been there for years, seemingly
waiting for campers to arrive.