The Retreat

About this property

At 22 feet long and 7 feet wide, The Retreat resembles a brick-built shepherd’s hut but with ensuite facilities and additional services. The Retreat, a characterful single-storey tiny house, rests within a generous woodland plot in the peaceful village of Oulton, Norfolk. Perfect for those seeking a slower pace or a digital detox, this tucked-away haven offers ground-floor living with ensuite facilities and electricity, ideal for anyone craving simplicity. Step from the driveway and into the cottage, where the compact kitchen awaits—equipped for easy self-catering and ideal for preparing a warming breakfast or light supper. Vaulted ceilings with exposed beams lend a sense of openness, while a Velux window draws daylight into the open-plan sitting, dining and sleeping area.

The full-size double sofa bed offers flexible sleeping arrangements, and the tiled shower room with walk-in shower provides a practical space to refresh after a day exploring. Electric heaters keep the space warm, and the layout flows easily from one area to the next. With no digital distractions, guests are encouraged to reconnect with the natural world—perhaps through sketching, reading, or simply watching the light shift across the beams. Step outside and let the garden envelop you. Here, the air is rich with birdsong and the scent of nature, and the rustle of leaves might reveal a passing squirrel. Whether you’re sipping tea beneath the trees or wandering the perimeter in quiet reflection, the garden offers a rare kind of stillness—a place to breathe deeply and feel grounded.

A local shop is a short stroll away, and the nearest pub can be reached with a gentle walk, for all of the essentials. The Norfolk Coast National Landscape is within easy reach, offering scenic walks and nature-rich adventures. Sheringham is a short drive north, perfect for coastal outings, while the historic city of Norwich lies to the south, offering cultural attractions, shopping and dining. Closer to home, the grand halls and lakeside paths of Blickling Estate invite slow exploration—wander through walled gardens, pause by the ornamental lake, or browse the second-hand bookshop tucked beneath ancient beams. For those drawn to quieter corners of nature, Holt Country Park offers a woodland retreat of winding trails and shaded clearings, where the rhythm of the forest encourages reflection and unhurried wandering.

Whether you're seeking heritage, greenery or a moment of stillness, the surrounding area offers plenty to discover—each place adding its own layer to the experience of staying at The Retreat.

The attractive little village of Ibberton, nestling beneath the ridge of Bulbarrow Hill, is located within the Blackmore Vale, a short drive from Blandford Forum in glorious North Dorset. The surrounding countryside, celebrated by Thomas Hardy, who wrote 'Return of The Native' in nearby Sturminster Newton, is now a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with superb scenic walks and a haven for wildlife. There is plenty to see and do within an easy drive, including Stourhead House and Gardens, the fabulous abbey and castles at Sherborne, the Saxon hilltop town of Shaftesbury, as well as the bustling market town of Dorchester. Just a little further afield, the beautiful cathedral city of Salisbury, and the popular seaside resorts of Bournemouth and Weymouth provide great days out. A super, peaceful holiday base from which to explore this lovely part of the country at any time of the year.

Accommodation

Single-storey.

Kitchen.

Studio-style layout with double sofa bed, dining area and sitting area.

Shower room with walk-in shower, basin and WC

Electric heating.

Electric oven and hob, fridge with ice box, washing machine, kettle.

Power, included in rent.

Bed linen and towels included in rent.

Off-road parking for 2 cars.

Large garden with patio, lawn, gravel and furniture.

Please park on the grass rather than the gravel to avoid the risk of damaging your vehicle against the stone wall.

Sorry, no pets and no smoking.

Shop 1.1 miles, pub 0.9 miles.

Note: There is no WiFi or TV, mobile coverage is limited.

Note: This property requires a minimum stay of 2 nights.

Note: Only one booking per week is permitted, and no same-day changeovers.

Note: The wood burner is for display purposes only and is not operational for use.