A LUXURY holiday retreat celebrating five years on the east coast will take a walk on the wild side this summer.
Darwin Escapes’ Norfolk Woods Resort and Spa in Pentney, King’s Lynn, has unveiled a series of forest trails to open-up access to a unique and biodiverse woodland habitat which visitors can enjoy.
Employing 30 staff and attracting hundreds of visitors and owners from across the UK, the popular, pet-friendly park – which has up to 120 spaces for rental and ownership – has been described as one of Norfolk’s “hidden gems” by Sales Manager Ellen Vardy.
Following a period of significant investment and modernisation, facilities including a high-quality spa, sauna and steam room, gym, sports pitch, The Bistro bar restaurant and heated indoor swimming pool – with activities such as mini jet skis, body zorbs and water walkers, via the GoActive programme – have been a big hit with families, as have the incentives to buy a holiday home; such as free site fees and energy bills, and 50% off site fees for 2025.
But Ellen says a newly built series of forest trails through ancient woodland area have opened-up the 30-acre site – a previous winner of Hoseasons’ award for the Best Relax and Explore destination in the East of England – and capitalised on their ability to bring visitors closer to nature, guided by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust (NWT).
“The woodland was completely untouched, so we have sensitively incorporated picnic spots, seating areas, bridges and pathways to enable guests to take in some amazing sights, sounds and smells. It’s a great place to sit and relax, walk the dog, and enjoy the fresh air,” she said.
“You see something different every time because it is so biodiverse, from rare plants, bees and butterflies to MuntJac deer, squirrels, woodpeckers, buzzards and owls, and we are trying to encourage even more wildlife to make Norfolk Woods their home.
“This is a beautiful part of the world, people come here to escape suburbia, for peace and tranquillity – the stunning environment is without doubt our greatest asset and a major USP for owners.”
At the heart of the community, the resort hosts regular music jam sessions in the bar, and supports local businesses supplying Norfolk produce, notably organic honey, freshly baked cakes, and award-winning gin.
Ellen said: “This is such a friendly and welcoming holiday park. We’re one big happy family, and that in turn has led to a steady rise in both visitor numbers and holiday home ownership since 2019.
“It’s a special place, the interaction we have with our owners and guests is amazing, and to be a part of their lives is heartwarming.
“Whether they’re having a good day or a bad day, there is a real community feel here, which makes us stand out from some other holiday parks.”
She added: “While we have owners from across the country, there is a strong connection with King’s Lynn and neighbouring towns and villages, and we are close to some of the country’s most wonderful landmarks, from Sandringham Estate and 15th century Oxburgh Hall to Norfolk Lavender and the beautiful North Norfolk beaches and coastal villages.
“Norfolk Woods is all about making memories, and while we have developed and modernised facilities it is the people here that make the difference, and some of them have been with us since day one.
“For anyone looking to buy a holiday home in this amazing part of the world, now is the time to join us as we have a wide range of deals and discounted offers, as well as first-class leisure facilities that will appeal to all.”
