Brakehill Lodge Farm Camping

Barley shimmering in the breeze, tractors working in the fields and row upon row of vegetables. Norfolk is the breadbasket of England and if you’re going to go camping here there’s no finer place to stay than on a farm. And, when it comes to quiet farm stays, there’s one particular spot that stands out. Or rather, it doesn’t stand out at all, but harmlessly blends in to the point you might never know it’s there. And that’s Brakehill Lodge.

More than a mile from the nearest A-road and at the end of a long private drive, Brakehill Lodge Farm is the very epitome of a secluded farm stay. The camping field is sheltered and intimate, encircled by tall trees that break the wind but still leave views of blazing sunsets, and the old pig barn has been converted into a convenient communal space for campers, with a pool table, sofa and leaflets about local attractions. Outside, there are fairly lights and potted flowers and you can borrow the badminton racquets for games. It’s homespun and small scale – just right for a simple weekend in the tent.

The campsite is actually just one of owner Clare’s enterprises. She also runs popular craft courses, including pottery, willow weaving, peg looming, soap and candle making and more – with some of the proceeds going to support the Norfolk Wildlife Trust. In all, it makes for a charming concoction that shows rural enterprising at its best. She even sells homemade bread and honey fresh from the farmhouse.

Famously flat, the local Norfolk countryside is a dream if you’ve brought your bikes and want some family-friendly exploring. There’s a handful of good pubs within pedalling distance but most folks head the half-hour drive south to Thetford Forest Park, for marked trails and good walking routes. On a sunny day, try the parking area at the St Helen's Picnic Site for paddling and swimming in a pretty section of the Little Ouse River. If it’s particularly hot it can be surprisingly busy, given how hidden in Thetford Forest it feels, but when you return to the tiny campsite at Brakehill Lodge Farm you can be sure of peace and quiet again.