Going away with a toddler in tow is rarely a relaxing affair. However, after a weekend in Cranmer Cottages on the beautiful Norfolk coast, my husband and I managed to recharge our weary batteries and returned home feeling revitalised!

Five stylishly converted barns, with not a hint of chintz in sight, make up the Cranmer Country Cottages. Each cottage is kitted out with all mod-cons and comes equipped with all the essential baby equipment.

Outside there are tennis courts and a fully-equipped playground, with swings and slides for children. Rainy afternoons can be spent playing table tennis or pool in the games room. There's also a beautiful indoor swimming pool, complete with cathedral-style windows, so you can float through the pool admiring the view of the countryside.

The friendly owner, Lynne, is on site to help with any queries and is able to provide ready-cooked meals and an emergency baby pack if needed.

Located on the beautiful Norfolk coast, there's always plenty to do. We treated ourselves to a delicious lunch at The Norfolk Riddle in the village of Walshingham, where the owners helpfully put together a tasty snack for little Rory. We then stocked up with more fresh food goodies from the Walshingham Farm Shops over the road.

The following day was spent browsing the antique and boutique shops in Burnham Market before venturing on a hearty walk out to the staggeringly beautiful Holkham beach. We wheeled the buggy along the old oyster path from Burnham Overy, casting our eyes across the Norfolk skyline and taking in the beauty of the salt flats, the harbour and Holkham dunes. Our walk was followed with a pub lunch in the sunshine back at The Hero in Burnham Overy Staithe.

The highlight of the weekend though was being able to relax in our cottage, while Rory romped around exploring and playing in the superbly child-proof space. Rory adored his stay at Cranmer Cottages and zoomed up and down the sitting room pushing his cart of bricks, hiding behind the curtains and practicing his walking around the coffee table.

It's quite rare we get to put our feet up these days, so we'll definitely be back for a second and longer visit.

For more information

Cranmer Cottages can be booked through Baby Friendly Boltholes

The Norfolk Riddle
01328 821903

Walshingham Farms Shop
01328 821877