Bessingham Manor, Holt, Norfolk

Rescued from the brink of destruction, this beautiful property has been completely and sympathetically restored. Inside the style is elegant but relaxed; think four poster beds, slipper baths, deep comfy sofas, elegant reception rooms and a wonderful Victorian kitchen.

The house is ideal for large groups of family and friends to get together to enjoy holidays or for special celebrations, and house parties.

Although the house is secluded in its own private grounds on the edge of a tiny village, it's not far from the North Norfolk coast with many activities such as walking, swimming, sailing, horse riding. Alternatively relax on a sandy beach or go fossil hunting by the sea cliffs. There are many great Gastro pubs in the picturesque brick and flint villages. The nearby fashionable town of Holt has many boutiques, restaurants and coffee shops, and Cromer pier is a short drive away. There are also many impressive National Trust properties to visit.

You enter another age as soon as you step into the grand entrance hall, complete with black and white marble flooring, and a large sweeping staircase. Enter the magnificent 14m long reception room with its beautiful bay windows, marble fireplace, chandeliers and French doors that lead out on to the garden – and you have found the perfect room for entertaining. For a more intimate space, cosy up in the study with its leather sofas, wood-burner and beautiful furniture.

The wonderful handmade Victorian kitchen with big pine table, and scullery with huge original butler sink, are ideal for catering and cooking for numbers. The grand dining room has original flagstone flooring and a large wood burner. There are two cloakrooms, one off the porch and the other off the "servants" hall which is huge! There is also a playroom at the far end of the house where the children can make as much noise as they like playing table football!

The house has 7 beautiful bedrooms with great views.

The Bear of Bessingham Manor was brought back from India by the Lord of the Manor as a cub in Victorian times and reportedly was kept in the vast barrel-vaulted cellars and brought out after dinner parties to entertain his guests!