Recommended by:

Jenny M-E - Bedfordshire

Our party:

• Adults:
• Ages:
•  
• Children:
• Dogs:

• 2
• 39 - 60
•  
• 0
• 1

Stayed:

7 Nights
September - 2015

Wanted:

• Relaxing
• Walking
• Beach / Sea
• Local Food

• Touring
• Shopping
• Entertainment

Summary:

“A fantastic little hideaway”

Self contained, fully equipped, all on one level. Double shower, King-size bed, enclosed garden, parking off road.

Owners very accommodating and super-friendly, left a cream tea, tea, coffee, sugar, milk and treats for the dog for our arrival. Midweek surprise of home made cake left for us mid week.

Ideally located for shops and beaches. Folders full of information on things to do etc. Cannot fault it in any way

Specifically Recommend:

Dog-friendly, suitable for a couple

Local Gems:

Horsey Beach to view the seals, lots of dog-friendly pubs.

Jenny M-E, Leighton Buzzard, Beds - 16th September 2015

Overall Rating:

Comfort
Cleanliness
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Quality Of Items
Useful Info

Recommended on 16/09/2015
By Jenny M-E - Bedfordshire

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Recommended by:

Pauline P - Northamptonshire

Our party:

• Adults:
• Ages:
•  
• Dogs:

• 2
• 64 - 65
•  
• 2

Stayed:

7 Nights
April - 2015

Wanted:

• Relaxing
• Walking
• Beach / Sea
• Local Food

• Touring
• Shopping
• Entertainment

Summary:

“We had a perfect holiday - I think we have found a little piece of heaven”

We arrived at the cottage to a warm welcome by the owners plus a wonderful scone tea waiting for us. The cottage was very comfortable and very well equipped.

The surroundings were beautiful, just a short walk to Weavers Way and beautiful walks. Only a short drive to many great beaches with many eating places that are dog-friendly. We highly recommend it.

Specifically Recommend:

A visit to Cromer - lovely town, lovely beach.

Local Gems:

Beaches are amazing and dog-friendly. Recommend a visit to Horsey beach to see the seals - a wonderful experience.

Pauline P, Raunds, Northamptonshire - 3rd May 2015

Overall Rating:

Comfort
Cleanliness
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Useful Info

Recommended on 03/05/2015
By Pauline P - Northamptonshire

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Recommended by:

Heather O - Lancashire

Our party:

• Adults:
• Ages:
•  
• Dogs:

• 1
• 60 - 62
•  
• 1

Stayed:

4 Nights
March - 2015

Wanted:

• Relaxing
• Walking
• Beach / Sea

• Touring
• Shopping
• Entertainment
• Local Food

Summary:

“A lovely home-from-home. I wouldn’t hesitate to return or recommend to anyone”

My first holiday alone.
My first holiday with my dog

The Tender was perfect for an early Spring short break. It was very cosy, beautifully furnished with everything you (or your dog) might need.

Michelle, Richard, Olly and Monty were very welcoming and because I was holidaying alone I felt comfortable knowing that they were close by should I have needed them.

Homemade cakes were left on the doorstep when I returned one day and they were delicious. The welcome pack was appreciated.

As a town girl who would like to be a country girl I loved the peace and quiet, no light-pollution, star gazing, the wildlife, easy walking on the Weavers Way footpath directly from the door and the easy access to local beaches.

My holiday highlight was watching a Barn Owl hunting early one morning with the mist still low to the ground and the trees rising out of the mist in the background - this was just along the lane from The Tender.

Specifically Recommend:

Sea Palling beach

Bacton Woods

Weavers Way

Check tide times, some beaches are completely covered at high tide and if you want to see the seals at Horsey you won’t if the tide’s too high

Local Gems:

The Ship Inn at Mundesley

Sea Palling beach

Truly Local shop in Stalham (High St)

The Star at Lessingham

Heather O, Accrington, Lancashire - 24th March 2015

Overall Rating:

Comfort
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Useful Info

Recommended on 24/03/2015
By Heather O - Lancashire

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Recommended by:

Martyn L-W - Kent

Our party:

• Adults:
• Ages:
•  

• 2
• 62 - 64
•  

Stayed:

7 Nights
March - 2015

Wanted:

• Relaxing
• Walking
• Beach / Sea
• Local Food
• Cycling And Celebrate Brother-in-laws Birthday

• Touring
• Shopping
• Entertainment

Summary:

“An outstanding cottage, with a warm welcome from the most hospitable and kindest of hosts, in beautiful countryside”

An exceptional experience. The cottage has great charm, is very comfortable, exceptionally clean, and furnished and decorated by owners with a very good eye for design. The interior has real individuality. We felt immediately at home.

The owners are two of the most hospitable, kind, and charming people one could hope to meet. So many lovely touches. The homemade scones and jam waiting for us when we arrived. The tin of homemade cakes that was brought round during our stay. Nothing was too much trouble.

We loved the surrounding area, with the Weavers Way literally just a minute or so away. Charming courtyard garden. Fresh flowers in the cottage. Felt like a home. Loved the record player, and big selection of LPs, of a variety of genres, and reflecting an individuals tastes. All that we like at home. The radio in the kitchen. The bedside radio that also had a dock for my iPod. Nothing had been forgotten. The torches, the walking sticks, the small library, the folders of local information. Impossible to recommend this cottage highly enough.

Specifically Recommend:

The closeness to the Weavers Way

The exceptional cleanliness and charm of the cottage

The delightful owners the wealth of excellent walks and cycle rides literally at one’s doorstep

The owners’ attention to detail.

Local Gems:

The wonderful beach walks at Happisburgh.
T he best shop ever for bread and a wide selection of groceries (Everything Local, in Stalham)and the very good butchers in Stalham

All the lanes we cycled along, visiting Happisburgh, Lessingham, Sea Palling, Ingham, Dilham, Coltishall.

Strongly recommend a visit to the beautiful village of Worstead and the nature reserve at Hickling Heath.

Martyn L-W, Rochester, Kent - March 2015

Owner’s Reply:

’’Thank you for your so very kind words, we were both very pleased you enjoyed your trip to Norfolk and stay at The Tender. It was an absolute pleasure meeting you both and we hope you return in the not so distant future just let us know if you need any help with transfers’’ Michelle & Richard

Overall Rating:

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Recommended on 18/03/2015
By Martyn L-W - Kent

We confirm Martyn was a bona-fide paying guest at The Tender. The content of his recommendation was not incentivised and is factually accurate at the time of writing.
Michelle & Richard, owners, The Tender - April 2015

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Recommended by:

Sophie M - Lincolnshire

Our party:

• Adults:
• Ages:
•  
• Dogs:

• 2
• 37 - 43
•  
• 1

Stayed:

5 Nights
October - 2014

Wanted:

• Relaxing
• Walking
• Beach / Sea
• Dog Friendly

• Touring
• Shopping
• Entertainment
• Local Food

Summary:

“There are plenty of places to visit in the world, however we can not wait to return again. Very relaxing & fulfilling”

I feel I just have to tell everyone about what a fantastic time we have had at The Tender. I am over whelmed by Michelle, Richard, Olly & Monty’s welcoming hospitality. We have never been so at home when away with our fur baby before.

Not only was The Tender well equipped & clean it appears never to have had a dog in it (which I know isn’t the case) but previously stayed in dog-friendly cottages always appear to be dog-tired.

When we arrived we were welcomed with homemade scones & a boiled kettle ready to make our own drinks. There were also homemade biscuits for Barney. The fridge was stocked with breakfast for the next day. The cottage had been fully stocked with all the tiniest details from tea, coffee washing up stuff, bathroom bits etc. there was plenty of dvds & books to read. A basket full of local maps, walks, leaflets & information. We honestly didn’t want for anything while we were there.

I would not hesitate to recommend to friends & can’t wait to return asap.

A true gem has been discovered that you should be very proud of. Thank you for the most memorable break away we have ever had and it was also the 1st proper holiday that 4 month old Cocker Spaniel Barney has had which will always be in our memory now.
Thank you
The Markhams

Specifically Recommend:

It honestly is the best dog-friendly cottage we’ve ever come across. I can’t rate it highly enough.

Local Gems:

Four miles to the nearest beach. Opposite Weavers Way.

The Markhams - and Barney - Bourne, Lincolnshire - 26th October 2014

Owner’s Reply:

’’Well Sophie, I think it’s fair to say you enjoyed your holiday at the lovely Tender! You are not the first to call it a ’gem’ or to mention how hospitable the owners, Michelle and Richard, are. And I am sure you won’t be the last. They really do care about the guests they have and their dogs too and it is the little things, like making sure the kettle is freshly boiled when you arrive, that make a difference. No cost, just care and it does make such a difference. Really glad Barney was able to enjoy his first holiday so thoroughly and really appreciate you taking the time to tell others about it in this great review.’’ - Sue

Overall Rating:

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Recommended on 26/10/2014
By Sophie M - Lincolnshire

I confirm Sophie was a bona-fide paying guest at The Tender. The content of her recommendation was not incentivised and is factually accurate at the time of writing
- Sue Allen - East Ruston Cottages - 11.11.14

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Recommended by:

Lynn D - Essex

Our party:

• Adults:
• Ages:
•  
• Dogs:

• 2
• 48 - 60
•  
• 4

Stayed:

7 Nights
October - 2014

Wanted:

• Relaxing
• Walking
• Beach / Sea

• Touring
• Shopping
• Entertainment
• Local Food

Summary:

“One of the best places I have ever stayed”

This property is fantastic. Very dog-friendly, close to some amazing beaches with just about everything you could want from a home away from home.

So many lovely touches that just made it stand out from the rest. Without a doubt we will be back as soon as we can.

Specifically Recommend:

Visit some of the super beaches Norfolk has to offer and then come back, put your feet up and relax. It is superb

Local Gems:

Sea Palling and the Reef Bar. Great food and good service and happy for us and our four dogs to come inside.

Cart Gap, Happisburgh - just gorgeous

Lynn D, Corringham, Essex - 13th October 2014

Overall Rating:

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Useful Info

Recommended on 13/10/2014
By Lynn D - Essex

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Recommended by:

Teresa H from Leics

Our party:

• Adults:
• Ages:
•  
• Dogs:

• 2
• 50 - 51
•  
• 2

Stayed:

3 Nights
September - 2014

Wanted:

• Relaxing
• Walking
• Beach / Sea
• Local Food

• Touring
• Shopping
• Entertainment

Summary:

“Lovely relaxing three days, would revisit for longer next time ”

Wonderful place, lovely cottage, host very welcoming with nothing was too much trouble.

Dogs very welcome, lots of good walks, beaches 10 mins away (driving )

Wish we had booked for longer, highly recommended

Specifically Recommend:

Cross Keys pub (via a walk ) - nice food, dogs welcome

Teresa H, Countesthorpe, Leicester - 13th September 2014

Owner’s Reply:

’’Thank you Teresa for your review. Hopefully next time you can come for longer to enjoy The Tender. The walk you did to the Cross Keys will have been a nice one and I have just learnt that they are offering to give East Ruston based guests a lift home if they come and eat and drink at the pub! Something for next time maybe..... ’’ - Sue

Overall Rating:

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Recommended on 13/09/2014
By Teresa H from Leics

I confirm Teresa was a bona-fide paying guest at The Tender. The content of her recommendation was not incentivised and is factually accurate at the time of writing.
Sue Allen, East Ruston Cottages - 24th September 2014

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Recommended by:

Charlie B - Sidcup

Our party:

• Adults:
• Ages:
•  
• Dogs:

• 2
• 53 - 62
•  
• 1

Stayed:

7 Nights
August - 2014

Wanted:

• Relaxing
• Touring
• Beach / Sea
• Local Food

• Walking
• Shopping
• Entertainment

Summary:

“What a beautiful little gem set in the North Norfolk countryside”

My wife and I (plus Archie our dog) found this cottage charming and was tucked away down some country lanes. On our arrival we were met by Richard and Michelle who showed us round the property. On the kitchen table were two homemade scones and strawberry jam which were delicious.

There were lots of information books, leaflets and maps giving us an array of choices of where to go and what to do locally. They even rang some local pubs up to find out for us what times and days that they were open for dining. It is very dog-friendly in this part of Norfolk.

It was my 62nd birthday on the Monday and they gave me a card and a pork pie with a candle in (as I had mentioned that I didn’t have much of a sweet tooth). I would recommend this property to anyone and once again I would like to thank Richard and Michelle for the warm reception that they gave us.

Specifically Recommend:

That you take time to read all of the guest book reviews as it will guide you in the right direction to make your holiday one to remember.

Local Gems:

Sea palling, Bacton and Happisburg are all nearby and all are dog-friendly.

We always seemed to end up early evening tasting the local brew in the Pleasureboat Inn at Hickling Broad and during the day we did a bit of people watching in the Swan Inn at Horning especially the day pleasure boats trying to moor up - (funny - in a nice way).

En Route:

The Red Lodge an old fashioned transport caf on the A11.

Charlie B from Sidcup, Kent - 26th August 2014

Owner’s Reply:

’’Charlie thank you for your review another good one for The Tender, another one mentioning the hospitality of Michelle and Richard who really are great hosts, helpful and welcoming but not too intrusive. Sounds like you and the wife and Archie did exactly what this part of Norfolk is good for, relaxing and enjoying the local pubs and beaches and general dog-friendliness of the area. Hope to see you back here again’’ - Sue

Overall Rating:

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Recommended on 26/08/2014
By Charlie B - Sidcup

I confirm Charlie was a bona-fide paying guest at The Tender. The content of their recommendation was not incentivised and is factually accurate at the time of writing.
Sue Allen, East Ruston Cottages - 3rd September 2014

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Recommended by:

Maureen H, Beds

Our party:

• Adults:
• Ages:
•  
• Dogs:

• 2
• 50 - 60
•  
• 1

Stayed:

7 Nights
June - 2014

Wanted:

• Relaxing
• Walking
• Beach / Sea
• Local Food

• Touring
• Shopping
• Entertainment

Summary:

“Dog heaven”

This is our secord time here, we loved it so much, we had to come again..... You are welcomed as soon as you arrive by Richard and Michelle, with a welcome pack of an afternoon tea, dog biscuit for our dog, Sky, water and food bowls for her, towels for her and us. It’s partly open plan in a lovely way that there was so much room for our dog to lay out (She a GSD).

The garden is fab for dogs - so large - our dog loved playing with Monty (the owners’ dog) ..but you do have a small courtyard to yourself with seating and a gate you can shut..so you have some privacy.

The place is in a small hamlet - no shop or Pub, which we love ..Stalham is not far for shops and Pubs - about 3 miles by car.

Specifically Recommend:

If you are looking for a place for your dog or dogs, this is the place for you

Local Gems:

Peace and quiet

Maureen (and Sky) from Houghton Regis - 28th June 2014

Owner’s Reply:

’’Thank you very much Maureen for your review very kind and glowing and I am so glad you had such a nice time and a lovely welcome from the Holgates, they really are very good at making people feel at home.
There is a actually a pub in the village (The Butchers Arms) and it is possible to walk into Stalham along the Weavers Way from across the road from The Tender if you want to as an alternative to the car (the path comes out right at the top of the high street) but as you rightly say the village is a very peaceful hamlet, tucked well out of the way.
So pleased that Sky liked Monty he really is a nice dog and will make friends with anyone but also respect the privacy of the courtyard if your dog doesn’t want a holiday playmate’’ - Sue

Overall Rating:

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Recommended on 28/06/2014
By Maureen H, Beds

I confirm Maureen was a bona-fide paying guest at The Tender. The content of her recommendation was not incentivised and is factually accurate at the time of writing.
Sue Allen, East Ruston Cottages - 10th July 2014

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Recommended by:

Sarah S from Colchester

Our party:

• Adults:
• Ages:
•  
• Dogs:

• 2
• 50 - 56
•  
• 2

Stayed:

7 Nights
June - 2014

Wanted:

• Relaxing
• Walking
• Beach / Sea
• Shopping
• Local Food

• Touring
• Entertainment

Summary:

“Great dog-friendly cottage”

Excellent base for a holiday. Really dog-friendly and the hosts are so friendly and welcoming.

The cottage is beautiful, very clean and really practical. There is off-road parking and a courtyard garden,

This was our second year and we are coming back next year. It is right opposite the Weavers Way so great for walking the dogs.

On arrival there was a cream tea waiting for us, dog treats for the dogs and holiday collars for them as well

Specifically Recommend:

To people taking dogs are on holiday

Local Gems:

Fairhaven Water Gardens

Sea Paling Beach

North Norfolk Steam Railway

Sheringham Park

East Rushton Gardens

Sarah S, Colchester, Essex - 16th June 2014

Owner’s Reply:

’’Thank you very much Sarah for your glowing review and delighted you will be coming back for your third year running. Michelle and Richard will be very pleased to have you back as you were such good guests!’’ - Sue

Overall Rating:

Comfort
Cleanliness
Meals / Kitchen
Bathroom Facilities
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Useful Info

Recommended on 16/06/2014
By Sarah S from Colchester

I confirm Sarah was a bona-fide paying guest at The Tender. The content of her recommendation was not incentivised and is factually accurate at the time of writing.
Sue Allen, East Ruston Cottages - June 26th 2014

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Recommended by:

John E - Leics

Our party:

• Adults:
• Ages:
•  
• Dogs:

• 2
• 61 - 65
•  
• 1

Stayed:

7 Nights
May - 2014

Wanted:

• Relaxing
• Walking
• Beach / Sea

• Touring
• Shopping
• Entertainment
• Local Food

Summary:

“A delightful place to stay in peaceful surroundings with friendly and helpful hosts”

Our stay at The Tender was very enjoyable being peaceful and relaxing. Inside was very comfortable and beautifully appointed.

The property was ideally situated for us as we were opposite The Weavers Way to walk. There was a sitting area at the back of the house which was enclosed, suitable for the dog.

We were given a lovely welcome pack, so nice to sit and have a cup of tea and something to eat before you unpack the car. Flowers and breakfast items also included. The property was very quiet and suitable for couples and dogs.

Specifically Recommend:

Felbrigg Hall

Local Gems:

All the local beaches were good.

En Route:

Sandringham. Lovely grounds to picnic in or a caf-restaurant.

John E Hinckley, Leics, 19th May 2014

Owner’s Reply:

’’Thank you John for your review. I am so glad you found The Tender to your liking, as so many people before you have done and are continuing to do. Glad you enjoyed the peace and tranquillity of the location and also the close proximity to the Weavers Way for your walks. Thank you for including Felbrigg and Sandringham in your review too both really lovely places to visit while you are here and-or on the way home’’ - Sue

Overall Rating:

Comfort
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Recommended on 19/05/2014
By John E - Leics

I confirm John was a bona-fide paying guest at The Tender. The content of his recommendation was not incentivised and is factually accurate at the time of writing.
Sue Allen, East Ruston Cottages - 11th July 2014

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Recommended by:

Karen B - Maldon, Essex

Our party:

• Adults:
• Ages:
•  
• Dogs:

• 2
• 40 - 50
•  
• 1

Stayed:

7 Nights
April - 2014

Wanted:

• Relaxing
• Walking
• Beach / Sea
• Shopping
• Local Food

• Touring
• Entertainment

Summary:

“A little gem not to be under-rated”

A great place to stay, away from the hassle of normal life. The cleanest and most comfortable accommodation with a cosy feel. Single level living with nice courtyard garden.

Welcome pack of local goodies very nice, and hosts very attentive to their guests’ needs.

Within 1 min walk to Weavers Way and only a short drive to amazing beaches. Many local pubs welcome dogs and the whole area is geared up to making dogs and their owners welcome.

A real little gem.

Specifically Recommend:

If you want to book without any worry about the quality of accommodation then this is the one for you.

Local Gems:

Lots of pubs - the Star in Lessingham very good.

Sea Palling beach walk to Waxham barn and Horsey seal sanctuary.

Bacton woods. Truly local foods in Stalham.

Day boat hire at Stalham- dog friendly.

KJB - Maldon, Essex - 4th May 2014

Owner’s Reply:

’’Thank you Karen for your lovely review. Seems that the goodies guests arrive to and the kindness of Michelle and Richard are one of the things on the top of the list for most guests closely followed by the peace and quiet, the great beaches and dog-friendly pubs! Glad you were able to enjoy them all and I hope you will be back again soon’’ - Sue

Overall Rating:

Comfort
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Meals / Kitchen
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Useful Info

Recommended on 04/05/2014
By Karen B - Maldon, Essex

I confirm Karen was a bona-fide paying guest at The Tender. The content of their recommendation was not incentivised and is factually accurate at the time of writing.
- Sue Allen, East Ruston Cottages

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Recommended by:

Linda P - Isle of Wight

Our party:

• Adults:
• Ages:
•  
• Dogs:

• 2
• 60 - 70
•  
• 4

Stayed:

7 Nights
January - 2014

Wanted:

• Relaxing
• Walking
• Beach / Sea
• Local Food

• Touring
• Shopping
• Entertainment

Summary:

“Home from home...perfect!”

I just loved playing house here. Superbly equipped. Even had a slow cooker!

Dogs were very happy. Throws provided so they, and we, could relax as if at home.

Hosts were very friendly, and their dog was lovely company for our youngest, liveliest dog.

Perfect! Will return...

Specifically Recommend:

Near to a perfect dog walking area....the Weavers Way.

Local Gems:

Cart Gap beach

Linda B P - Seaview, Isle of Wight - 28.04.14

Owner’s Reply:

’’Thank you so much for taking the time to provide a review Linda! Delighted you enjoyed your stay at The Tender and hope you will be able to make the journey from the Isle of Wight to Norfolk with your whippets again’’ - Sue

Overall Rating:

Comfort
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Useful Info

Recommended on 28/04/2014
By Linda P - Isle of Wight

I confirm Linda and her whippets were bona-fide paying guests at The Tender . The content of her recommendation was not incentivised and is factually accurate at the time of writing.

Sue Allen, East Ruston Cottages - 29.04.14

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