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  • A patio area with wooden chairs and table under a green umbrella outside a brick house at The Bull Pen Rackheath near Norwich and the Norfolk Broads
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A patio area with wooden chairs and table under a green umbrella outside a brick house at The Bull Pen Rackheath near Norwich and the Norfolk Broads An outdoor patio area with a round table and four wooden chairs under a green umbrella next to a house and plants in large pots at The Bull Pen in Rackheath near Norwich and the Norfolk Broads A living room with leather sofa and armchair a wood burning stove TV and wooden coffee table at The Bull Pen in Rackheath near Norwich and the Norfolk Broads A living room with a leather armchair a wood stove a television on a wooden stand and a wooden coffee table with wine glasses at The Bull Pen in Rackheath near Norwich and the Norfolk Broads A living room with a brown leather sofa and armchair a wooden coffee table and kitchen in the background at The Bull Pen in Rackheath near Norwich and the Norfolk Broads A corner of a room with a console table holding a popcorn machine lamp and decor next to a glass door and an open kitchen at The Bull Pen in Rackheath near Norwich and the Norfolk Broads A kitchen with wooden floor and white cabinets a window with patterned blind and kitchen appliances at The Bull Pen in Rackheath near Norwich and the Norfolk Broads A kitchen with white cabinets wooden countertop blue tiled backsplash and wooden door at The Bull Pen in Rackheath near Norwich and the Norfolk Broads A small dining area with a metal table set for two and a clock on the wall next to a bedroom at The Bull Pen in Rackheath near Norwich and the Norfolk Broads A living area with a brown sofa leather chair and a bed with a beach mural on the wall at The Bull Pen in Rackheath near Norwich and the Norfolk Broads A bedroom with a bed blue pillows and lamps beside it a red chair and wooden desk with a beach mural on the wall at The Bull Pen in Rackheath near Norwich and the Norfolk Broads A wooden side table with two vintage magazines and a gold textured lamp at The Bull Pen in Rackheath near Norwich and the Norfolk Broads A bedroom with a wooden vanity table with lights a pink chair a wooden wardrobe and a beach mural on the wall at The Bull Pen in Rackheath near Norwich and the Norfolk Broads A bathroom with a white pedestal sink a glass shower enclosure with a tiled wall a white shelving unit with towels and toilet paper and a blue painted wall at The Bull Pen Rackheath near Norwich and the Norfolk Broads A patio area with a round wooden table and chairs under a green umbrella near wooden fences and potted plants at The Bull Pen in Rackheath near Norwich and the Norfolk Broads A courtyard with a small tree in a wooden planter and a wooden fence in front of a tiled roof building at The Bull Pen in Rackheath near Norwich and the Norfolk Broads

The Bull Pen

(Ref. 1140248)

Rackheath near Norwich and the Norfolk Broads, Norfolk Show on map

Customer rating 4.9

Sykes rating

  • 2 Guests

  • 1 Bedroom

  • 1 Bathroom

  • Pets: Yes

Features

  • Off road parking
  • Ground floor accommodation
  • Ground floor bedroom
  • Open fire
  • Garden / Patio
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • pen (12)
  • bull (12)
  • no (11)
  • comfortable (11)
  • lovely (11)
  • cottage (9)

24 Customer Reviews

  • Verified booking

    "Words can't describe how much of an amazing find this was ."

    The pictures do not do this place justice it's massive and has everything you want and need for a break . Me and my partner Natalie decided to have a few days away but struggled to find anywhere for the bank holiday weekend until we found this little gem of a place . Once I had a look at the reviews and pictures I had to book it . When we arrived we was greeted my a huge kitchen with a lovely welcome sign from the hosts encouraging us to have a complimentary cocktail on them which after a drive was very refreshing and just what the doctor ordered. After getting settled in we took in our new surroundings and had a look at all of the quirky bits and decor which we absolutely loved . The bed is extremely comfortable and we could of easily slept all day . It has a great pub not too far called the stag salhouse which has a roast dinner that will leave you satisfied. The bull pen is in a prime location not far from the town centre and not far from the shops , its also a very peaceful and quiet area where you can only hear the birds sing. I could go on about the bull pen forever but put it this way we are already planning our next visit and can't wait to come back.

    wow! what an amazing review Nicholas. Thank you so much! and thank you for leaving it so clean and tidy. We really appreciate your feedback and the time it took to write. We hope you feel rested and look forward to seeing you again in the future. Kindest regards Carl and Vicky Property Owner

    Reviewed by Nicholas5.0★Aug 2025

  • Verified booking

    "We had a fantastic stay at this charming and quirky cottage."

    It was spotlessly clean, full of character, and had lots of lovely added touches that made it feel really welcoming. The bed was comfy, and we especially enjoyed the selection of board games which kept us occupied as the weather was too warm to go out in the day! The enclosed garden was a big plus – totally secure and perfect for our dog to enjoy. The location was ideal, with beautiful beaches and scenic walks just a short drive away. Clean, comfortable, and full of personality, this cottage was the perfect base for a relaxing break. Owners were lovely and friendly. We’d definitely love to come back!

    Hi Lizzie Thank you so much for the glowing review. We really appreciate you taking the time to write this we would love to have you back. kind regards Vicky and Carl Property Owner

    Reviewed by Lizzie5.0★Aug 2025

  • Verified booking

    "Such a lovely comfortable cottage."

    Absolutely perfect for peaceful stay. Everything you need in the cottage. Definitely home from home. The hosts Carl and Vicky were very welcoming. Will definitely be booking here again

    Thank you Sandra. That's a lovely review and we hope to welcome you back soon. kindest regards Vicky Property Owner

    Reviewed by Sandra5.0★Aug 2025

  • Verified booking

    "Lovely cottage in a great location."

    Tucked away but still close to local amenities. Perfect base for exploring. Fun decor and furnished to a very high standard with a comfy bed, great kitchen, and a sunny little gravel garden. Mac and I have had a lovely few days, thank you!

    Hi Charlotte. Thank you for the positive rating and review. we're very thankful and pleased to hear you enjoyed the Bull Pen. vicky Property Owner

    Reviewed by Charlotte5.0★Aug 2025

  • Verified booking

    "We had a great mid-week break in this lovely cottage."

    The decor & furnishings are very eclectic and are beautifully finished. They have obviously been put together with great thought and care and the overall effect is terrific. Despite the weather we had a great break and were very comfortable in the Bull Pen.

    That is so kind of you to leave this positive review and we're pleased you enjoyed our little hideaway. kind regards Vicky and carl Property Owner

    Reviewed by Stephen5.0★Jul 2025

  • Verified booking

    "The Bull Pen is a little gem perfect for a couple like us."

    The owners have put so many nice touches of their own to the cottage. Ideal location for the broads or the coast and a trip into Norwich. Owners were lovely and spent ages fixing the internet which had gone wrong! Thank you Carl and Vicky ! The mattress was so comfortable that I slept better than I had for ages!

    Hi both. We love the mattress too! so much so we bought the same for our own bed and thank you for the positive review and for leaving it very clean. Much appreciated. Kind regards. Vicky Property Owner

    Reviewed by Raymond William5.0★Jun 2025

  • Verified booking

    "The bull pen was perfect for us and the dog."

    Only small but had everything you needed. One level clean and very cosy. Two French windows that you could open in the morning and sit outside in the garden home from home for the dog. Very nice and helpful owners who would help if you needed them. Good location for exploring norfolk. A shop, pub, chipshop in walking distance. And the cod was huge. Would definitely book again.

    Thank you both for the positive feedback and really pleased you enjoyed your stay in Norfolk. Amazing weather! kind regards Vicky Property Owner

    Reviewed by Paul5.0★Jun 2025

  • Verified booking

    "Lovely quirky cottage."

    Well designed with large kitchen and comfortable living area and bedroom. Shower nice and powerful. Good area to get to Broads, coast and Norwich. Would go again

    Thank you Diane. We're very grateful for your 5 star review. We do offer a 10% discount for return customers if you do decide to come back. kind regards Vicky Property Owner

    Reviewed by Diane5.0★Jun 2025

  • Verified booking

    "We had a really lovely stay."

    The Bull Pen was in a great location, close to both Norwich and Wroxham. It had everything you could possibly need including some great little touches and the sofa and bed were very comfy. Loved the outside little area too and the cocktails!

    Hi Andre. Thank you for your very positive review and great to hear you were comfortable and enjoyed its little quirks. Kindest regards, vicky Property Owner

    Reviewed by Andre5.0★Jun 2025

  • Verified booking

    "The Bull Pen was super."

    It has everything you need for a relaxing stay - it is spacious and fully equipped, and the sitting out area is totally secure for dogs. Reasonably close to Norwich, the Norfolk Broads and the coast are all within easy reach. Excellent value for money, we will be returning.

    Dear Alan. Thank you for your helpful kind review. We're looking forward to having you back in October. Warmest regards. Vicky and Carl Property Owner

    Reviewed by Alan5.0★May 2025

  • Verified booking

    "A modern holiday accommodation with smart tv, induction hob which were a little complicated for us oldies to start with but ok once We sorted them out."

    We got the Wi Fi passcode off the router initially till We noticed the plaque with the details on at the end of the partition wall a few days later. The Bull Pen has a cosy feel to it, a Cottage with a modern twist. I would recommend it to anybody visiting the area.

    Thank you Robert. That's a kind and generous review with some helpful tips for other guests. The WiFi code is also in guest folder along with hob instructions. Thank you for your stay. kind regards Vicky Property Owner

    Reviewed by Robert5.0★Sep 2024

  • Verified booking

    "We really enjoyed our stay in The Bull Pen."

    Comfortable, clean, well located and very Snazzy! The tropical beach wall was particularly lovely. Would definitely stay here again.

    Thank you both! Very generous review which we're always grateful for Property Owner

    Reviewed by Neil5.0★Aug 2024

  • Verified booking

    "This is our second stay, a sign of a great venue with many interesting and personal touches."

    We love this place! Hopefully we will visit again soon. it is even better now that the local Sole and Heel pub has reopened under new ownership. it is also close to the lovely Black Barn Farm and Market, for good breakfasts and lunches.

    Thanks so much David. Great to have you back again and we're pleased too the pub is open. They've done a great job with the renovations. Property Owner

    Reviewed by David5.0★Aug 2024

  • Verified booking

    "The living room was cosy with a large tv which was excellent to watch."

    The bedroom had enough storage for clothes and the bed was comfortable and had a lightweight duvet for the summer. The kitchen looked large with new units. We had planned to eat out lunchtimes so hadn't brought much food. Some cereal, biscuits,crackers and a loaf. Was disappointed there was no bread bin and all the cupboards were full of equipment so nowhere to easily store anything. We went to fry an egg and thd only frying pan was a very large skillet type pan. Perhaps a little pan may be a nice addition. Other than this things were good.

    Dear Michael. Thank you for your feedback. Sykes has a considerable kitchen equipment list which we have to adhere to and so as you can appreciate this leaves little space for food storage, even though we feel we have a large kitchen for the size of the property. A bread bin would take up additional counter top space. We'll try and condense the items into fewer cupboards which will free up space for food items. Thanks again for your comments. They are always welcome. We will certainly get a smaller flying pan. Great suggestion! Property Owner

    Reviewed by Michael4.1★Jul 2024

  • Verified booking

    "Would recommend this cottage location perfect very comfortable and very clean"

    Thank you Linda. Your review is most kind. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Linda5.0★Jul 2024

  • Verified booking

    "Needs hard standing for outside table, very uncomfortable to walk on ."

    Sofa in the lounge area a bit too soft for comfort. Owners very friendly and helpful.

    Thank you Brian. It's a shame you felt this way. We'll take your comments on board. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Brian4.4★Jun 2024

  • Verified booking

    "Beautiful cottage, really liked the layout and the tropical decor."

    Mac (Scottie) settled down straight away, she liked the chickens visiting! It was very quiet and private. Not far from amenities and a good starting point to explore The Broads and Suffolk. Nice size shower stall etc, but a shower Matt would be an option to avoid slips.

    Thanks so much Ann for your kind review and the bottle of wine and card! really grateful good idea about the shower mat. Thank you Property Owner

    Reviewed by Ann5.0★May 2024

  • Verified booking

    "We had a wonderful week here; the owners were very friendly and helpful with recommendations, etc."

    The property is very comfortable, spacious, and well-equipped. The location is excellent for the Broads, the coast and Norwich. Thoroughly recommend!!

    Thats really kind colin. We enjoyed having you both and meeting your lovely dog :) Hope you managed to get a good reception for you radio ;) Property Owner

    Reviewed by Colin5.0★May 2024

  • Verified booking

    "What can I say about this property except it's fabulous"

    Thanks so much Penny! and thank you for leaving it so clean! you'd never know you'd been. Hope you had a good journey home and will visit again sometime Carl and vicky Property Owner

    Reviewed by Penny5.0★May 2024

  • Verified booking

    "The Bull Pen is a wonderful place to stay with many special touches."

    We particularly liked the tropical and travel themes and loved the mural on the bedroom wall. Everything worked and was well maintained with the owners providing very welcome arrival gifts.

    Dear David. Thank you very much for your glowing review and thank you for leaving it so tidy and clean! Glad you had a lovely stay. Warm regards. Vicky and carl Property Owner

    Reviewed by David5.0★Apr 2024

  • Verified booking

    "A superb property made better by the fantastic hosts."

    We will be back!

    Thats very kind Martin. It was a pleasure having you and meeting you both. Thank you also for leaving the Bull Pen spotlessly clean! We hope you can visit us again when next in the area. Vicky and Carl Property Owner

    Reviewed by Martin5.0★Jan 2024

  • Verified booking

    "We had a wonderful stay at The Bull Pen."

    Everything thing was spotlessly clean and ease of use. We travelled all around and this holiday let gave us a great base. Owners were easy going and left us to it..unless needed. Thank you Carl and Vikki for the added extras which helped a lot. Hope to come back and stay again sometime soon.

    Hi Hayley Many thanks for your lovely review. It was a pleasure having you and we're so pleased you found the property a great base from which to explore. Kindest regards, Vicky and Carl Property Owner

    Reviewed by Hayley5.0★Sep 2023

  • Verified booking

    "The Bull Pen was an absolute treat so true to the listing, it was cosy comfortable and very clean and very friendly hosts."

    we would definitely return

    Thank you for the positive feedback. Great to hear you enjoyed it. kindest regards Carl and Vicky Property Owner

    Reviewed by Janet5.0★Sep 2023

  • Verified booking

    "We had a lovely stay at the Bull Pen, everything was as advertised and so clean."

    Very well situated for trips out and about and a great fish shop just up the road. So lovely and quiet too, just what we needed.

    Thank you Ann. We are very grateful for your generous review. Carl and Vicky Property Owner

    Reviewed by Ann5.0★Sep 2023

How reviews work

Our review scores come directly from guests who have stayed with us and chosen to share their feedback.

After their stay, guests can leave a star rating and comments if they wish. The score you see (out of 5 stars) is the average of all the reviews we've received from those guests.

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Summary

  • Single-storey
  • Studio-style open-plan living with double bed, kitchen, dining and sitting area
  • Shower room with walk-in shower, basin and WC
  • Electric central heating
  • Double oven, induction hob, microwave, fridge, freezer
  • Smart TV with Freeview, DVD player, selection of DVDs, WiFi
  • Fuel and power inc. rent
  • Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
  • Off-road parking for 2 cars
  • Private gravel garden with patio furniture and wood-fired patio heater
  • One well-behaved dog welcome
  • Sorry, no smoking
  • Shop 0.5 miles, pub 1.1 miles
  • Note: Adults only
  • Note: Check-in from 3pm and check-out by 10am

The property

The Bull Pen is a magnificent, single-story, detached abode situated in the grounds of the owner’s home nestled between the villages of Rackheath and Salhouse in Norfolk.

This property is the perfect getaway for couples looking to unwind and reconnect with each other in an idyllic setting, with quick and easy access to the city of Norwich and the Norfolk Broads.

As you step into The Bull Pen, you'll immediately be captivated by the open-plan, studio style layout, creating a light and airy feel throughout the property.

The interior of this cottage is uniquely decorated with a tropical retro vibe, ideal for those looking for something different.

The spacious kitchen provides a range of appliances to help you whip up a delicious meal, ready to savour over conversation at the dining table.

After dinner, continue the evening in the sitting room, where you can kick back on the sofa with a romantic movie night in front of the Smart TV and Blu-ray DVD player.

Toast to the perfect evening and enjoy the free, complimentary cocktails and snacks at the bar, before escaping to the enclosed garden for a moment in the setting sun, with the warmth of the wood burner in the garden.

Lastly, freshen up in the shower room before escaping to the double bed to rest.

Spend a day in the fine city of Norwich famed for its magnificent 11th-century Norwich Castle, cathedral and medieval market, as well as its excellent selection of shops, bars and restaurants, before spending an evening at the theatre or cinema.

The Norfolk Broads, with the main boating centres of Wroxham, Hoveton and Horning are just a short drive from the Bull Pen.

For those looking to venture further afield in Norfolk, take a day trip to explore the beautiful beaches that stretch along the coastline.

Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and relax in the tranquil surrounds of The Bull Pen; a stay here will be truly unforgettable.

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £200.

Where you’ll be staying

View on map

RACKHEATH

Norwich 5.8 miles; Gorleston-on-Sea 21.3 miles.

Rackheath is a delightful village, located in Norwich, boasting a range of attractions for visitors to enjoy. Nature enthusiasts can explore the stunning Salhouse Broad, a picturesque lake surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil waters. This idyllic spot is perfect for boating, fishing, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along its scenic paths. For those seeking a more active experience, Sprowston Recreation Ground is a fantastic choice, boasting ample space for sports and recreational activities. Whether it's a game of football, tennis, or a refreshing jog, this well-maintained park provides a great outdoor space for all ages to enjoy. After a day of exploring, visitors can indulge in a delicious meal at Jason's Fish and Chips, a popular takeaway spot in Rackheath. Just a short journey away is Norwich, where visitors can discover the Norwich Cathedral, immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Norwich Castle, or indulge in retail therapy at the bustling Norwich Market.

This property offers the following short breaks:

  • Winter
  • Off-season
  • Last minute
  • Christmas
Flexible cancellation terms

If you cancel before 12 noon , get all of your money back:

  • Rent
  • Extras
  • Fees

excluding the Flexible Cancellation fee and any insurance premium.

There are a small number of circumstances where you can’t use Flexible Cancellation. See the Flexible Cancellation Terms that apply.