"Be aware it's a nicely quirky accomodation. Converted rail carriages .owner has one bedroom you have the other and share faciliies ."
Martin from United Kingdom
read full review
"Superb host and the most beautiful views."
Robert from United Kingdom
read full review
"Location was fantastic and the host welcoming."
Susan from United Kingdom
read full review
"The accommodation was EXACTLY as described. Location was excellent, right next to the beach."
Peter from United Kingdom
read full review
Beachfront homestay in two 1880s railway carriages on the Norfolk coast
Accommodation
Sundial Cottage consists of two authentic 1880s railway carriages converted into a single homestay. The twin room is located in one carriage with the bed where the seats would have been, and has a curtain instead of a door. Guests share a bathroom, kitchen and living space with the owner, who lives in the other carriage.
Beach and Outdoor Amenities
The property sits directly on a sandy beach with steps from the cliff path to the shore, and dogs are allowed on the beach year-round. Outside there is a garden, an outdoor fireplace, a picnic area with BBQ facilities, and sun loungers or beach chairs. Guests can also borrow bicycles, use the shared kitchen, and access free off-site parking and bicycle parking.
Activities and Recreation
On-site or nearby water sports include canoeing, windsurfing, fishing, and water sport facilities. Land activities available are hiking, mini golf, golf on a course, and pub crawls. The host offers public transport tickets and shuttle service to explore the area.
Pet-Friendly Policies
Pets are allowed at Sundial Cottage without restrictions on breed or size, and pet bowls are provided. The beach adjacent to the property has no dog ban, making it straightforward for guests with dogs. The host also welcomes pets in the shared areas of the cottage.
Location and Nearby Attractions
Sundial Cottage is located in Bacton, Norwich, directly on the Norfolk coastal path with a pub and a café within a 10-minute walk. Nearby attractions include BeWILDerwood (16 km), Blickling Hall (22 km), and Stow Windmill (5 km). Norwich International Airport is 27 km away, and the property offers airport shuttle service.
Highlights
Accommodation: Two 1880s railway carriages, twin room with curtain door
Beach: Direct sandy beach access, dog-friendly year-round
Outdoor: Garden, outdoor fireplace, BBQ, sun loungers
Activities: Canoeing, windsurfing, hiking, golf on course
Pet: Pets allowed with pet bowls, no beach restrictions
“Staying in these refurbished Victorian train carriages is an utterly charming experience, placing you mere steps from a quiet, beautiful beach. The host, Matthew, is genuinely a gentleman, imbuing the stay with a warmth and historical insight that elevates it beyond mere accommodation. It's a place where the unique character of the surroundings and the considerate hospitality converge for an excellent value break.”
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Uknorfolk
Select your room type
Sundial Cottage offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Twin Room
2 persons
2 Single beds
Bathtub
Heating
room details
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your dates now!
Facilities
Sundial Cottage offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.1/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
24-hour reception
VIP check-in/ -out
Pets allowed
Luggage storage
Fireplace
Key access
Sports & Fitness
Wind surfing
Canoeing
Hiking
Horseback riding
Cycling
Golf course
Fishing
Services
Paid airport shuttle
Pet amenities available
Laundry
Tours/Ticket assistance
Grocery shopping service
Dining
In-room breakfast
Picnic area/ Tables
Spa & Leisure
Beach access
Sun loungers
Garden area
BBQ facilities
Leisure/ TV room
Room features
Heating
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Shared kitchen
Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Show more
Sundial Cottage Location
Watch House Lane, Norwich, NR12 0HL,
Map view
City landmarks
Church
Beacon Community Church
640 m
Landmark
Broomholm Priory
610 m
Landmark
Bacton Beach
930 m
Church
Church of St Andrew
1.8 km
Landmark
Suil Na mara
2.05 km
Landmark
Church of St Peter
2.52 km
Landmark
Saint Margaret's Church
2.86 km
Landmark
Lighthouse Inn
2.7 km
Landmark
Paston Great Barn
2.95 km
Church
Church of St Margaret
2.76 km
Garden
East Ruston Old Vicarage Garden
4.94 km
Landmark
St Mary the Virgin Church
3.82 km
Church
All Saints
3.92 km
Lighthouse
Happisburgh Lighthouse
4.49 km
Landmark
Happisburgh Owls
4.54 km
Beach
Mundesley Beach
4.8 km
Church
Church of St Peter and St Paul
4.29 km
Landmark
Knapton Methodist Church
4.25 km
Landmark
Happisburgh Beach
4.57 km
Landmark
Bacton Wood
4.56 km
Museum
Mundesley Maritime Museum
4.76 km
Amusement Park
Mundesley Park
4.67 km
Landmark
Mundesley Free Church
4.75 km
Landmark
Adventure Island Golf
4.79 km
Landmark
Knapton Stone Circle
4.8 km
Landmark
Mundesley Methodist Church
4.97 km
Landmark
North Walsham and Dilham Canal
6.26 km
Nearby
Church
Beacon Community Church
180 m
5 Abbey St
Broomholm Priory
420 m
Restaurants
Cafe Carmel
500 m
Walcott Road
Sugar & Spice Cafe
730 m
Coast Road
Explore Norwich
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Broomholm Priory
8 minutes' walk
A historic site featuring beautiful ruins and serene grounds, perfect for a quiet stroll and photography.
Bacton Beach
12 minutes' walk
A picturesque beach ideal for sunbathing, walking, and enjoying the coastal scenery along the North Sea.
Church of St Andrew
5 minutes' drive
An iconic church with remarkable architecture and stained glass, set in a tranquil village atmosphere.
Suil Na Mara
5 minutes' drive
A renowned seafood restaurant with stunning sea views, known for fresh local catches and a relaxed dining atmosphere.
Hiking at Bacton Wood
50 minutes' walking
A scenic area perfect for hiking, offering well-marked trails set amidst lush woodlands. A great retreat for nature lovers.
Local Markets
12 minutes' drive
Weekly markets featuring local produce, crafts, and fresh foods, providing a taste of the area's culture and community.
Surfing at Bacton Beach
12 minutes' walk
An exciting destination for thrill-seekers, offering surfing lessons and beach rentals during the summer months.
Yoga Retreats
5 minutes' drive
Nearby wellness centers offer relaxing yoga sessions, perfect for unwinding and enhancing your relaxation during your stay.
Cafe Carmel
7 minutes' walk
A cozy cafe serving hearty breakfasts, sandwiches, and excellent coffee in a relaxed, friendly setting.
Sugar & Spice Cafe
9 minutes' walk
Charming eatery with a warm atmosphere, famous for its homemade cakes and traditional English dishes.
Suil Na Mara
5 minutes' drive
Unique seafood restaurant with an emphasis on freshness and local ingredients, perfect for a special night out.
Happisburgh Owls
7 minutes' drive
An engaging wildlife experience showcasing various owl species with interactive displays, great for all ages.
Local Pubs
8 minutes' walk
Welcoming pubs featuring live music and quiz nights, perfect for enjoying local brews and lively atmospheres.
Getting around
City Centre
Norwich 41 min · 27.2 km
Airports
Norwich International (NWI) 48 min · 31.5 km
Cambridge (CBG) 202 min · 134.4 km
Train
Norwich Train Station Building 42 min · 27.6 km
Want to see Exclusive Early Booking Rate?
Get exclusive rates right now!
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire apartment for free.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about Sundial Cottage from previous guests about their experience.
Cleanliness
8.3/10
Comfort
8.5/10
Facilities
8.1/10
Free Wi-Fi
10.0/10
Location
9.8/10
Paid Wi-Fi
10.0/10
Staff
9.3/10
Value for money
9.2/10
Pros
Unique train carriage accommodation
Helpful host
Beachfront location
Dog-friendly
Cons
Cluttered interior
Lack of privacy
No air conditioning
Unclear check-in instructions
Guest reviews
based on 107 reviews
8.2/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
The Maids Head Hotel
Gable End Hotel
Wellington Apartments
Crab Cottage
The Owls Rest Shepherds Hut Hethel
The Hive Great Yarmouth
Prosper House Apartment 6
Self-Catering Guest Annex
The Pelican Room-Converted Cart Lodge Near Airport
City Stays Norwich
Attractive 2 Bed Cottage In Hempton Fakenham
Hotel Pont De Val Boutique Hotel And Apartments Barrage
Gaylord Resort Colorado