(Non-)Hotel of the Week: Chaucer Barn
Posted by Kate on July 23rd, 2009Scandal has rocked Mr & Mrs Smith’s Hotel of the Week awards in their infancy. One week into our virtual glory-giving and a cry has gone up from those in the Smith & Friends corner - why exclude all our luxury self-catering properties by limiting ourselves to hotels? Quick - change the title… There are indeed as many amazing holiday homes for hire in our collection as there are gorgeous gotta-go-now B&Bs - this week’s worthy winner, a case in point.
Property of the week
Chaucer Barn, Norfolk
Style Barn entertainer
Setting Gresham farmland
Why this week? It defies belief that such a beautiful property, dangling irresistible carrots such as 10 per cent off this July and August or half-price bookings for those who can muster a crowd midweek should still have availability this month. It’s the nine-bedroomed, shabby chic, timber-clad steal of the week.
Our favourite bits We love the mix of polished (crisp white bedlinen and flawless fluffy towels) and playful (colourful Indian furnishings and modern textiles). And, at this time of year, the gardens don their summer best, scenting the kitchen with herbs while blooms creep colourfully over the gravel. This is a family-friendly pad for up to 18, equipped to keep little ones happy in all weathers, playing in the games room or running around the five-acre grounds.
Mr & Mrs Smith say ‘This self-catering stay is stylish to the core. Step inside, and even the most style savvy will be impressed by 
the personality-rich furnishings and artistic flourishes from around the globe. An open-plan kitchen and dining space provide the convivial heart of this hip home from home, with multiple sitting rooms and receptions areas. Chances are that groups staying here will quickly be glued to its on-site charms. But as Chaucer Barn is only a couple of miles from North Norfolk’s coastline, and a small drive from the pretty boutique- and deli-boasting town of Holt, you’re spoiled for outdoor distractions, too.’
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