Sotterley Hall Estate

Red brick and Georgian grandeur meet you at this working estate just outside Beccles, where the same family has lived for over 500 years. The house itself is proper impressive - think sweeping staircases, period rooms stuffed with family portraits, and that slightly lived-in feel that comes from being an actual home rather than a museum piece.

Walking the grounds is where Sotterley really shines. The walled garden's well worth exploring, especially if you're into proper English country gardening, and the woodland walks stretch for miles through ancient oak and beech. Kids might get restless during the house tour, but they'll love running about the estate grounds.

History buffs will appreciate the Tudor origins beneath all that Georgian refurbishment, plus there's usually someone about who knows the family stories going back centuries. The current owners are refreshingly down-to-earth about the whole thing.

Check their website before visiting as opening times seem to vary seasonally. Allow at least two hours if you're doing both house and gardens properly. From nearby holiday parks like Kessingland Beach or the various glamping spots around Beccles, it's an easy drive and makes a lovely contrast to all that seaside time. Particularly good on a drizzly day when the beach loses its appeal.