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Tawny Owl Barn, Shipdham

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Exceptional
Norfolk » Shipdham
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Tawny Owl Barn is a beautifully restored stone barn conversion in rural Norfolk. Original exposed beams and vaulted ceilings create a spacious feel throughout. The barn sits in peaceful countryside near Watton with open views across farmland. Inside you'll find a wood-burning stove and traditional features that remind you of the building's agricultural past.

The barn stands in a quiet spot surrounded by fields. You can walk straight out into the Norfolk countryside from the door. Wildlife visits regularly and the night sky is dark enough for stargazing.

Three bedrooms sleep six guests comfortably. The main bedroom has an en-suite bathroom. An open-plan kitchen and dining area leads into the sitting room with its wood burner.

About Tawny Owl Barn

Tawny Owl Barn is a beautifully restored stone barn conversion in rural Norfolk. Original exposed beams and vaulted ceilings create a spacious feel throughout. The barn sits in peaceful countryside near Watton with open views across farmland. Inside you'll find a wood-burning stove and traditional features that remind you of the building's agricultural past.

The barn stands in a quiet spot surrounded by fields. You can walk straight out into the Norfolk countryside from the door. Wildlife visits regularly and the night sky is dark enough for stargazing.

Three bedrooms sleep six guests comfortably. The main bedroom has an en-suite bathroom. An open-plan kitchen and dining area leads into the sitting room with its wood burner. High ceilings and original stonework feature throughout.

Thetford Forest offers walking and cycling trails 8 miles away (15 minutes). Oxburgh Hall sits 7 miles south (12 minutes). Banham Zoo makes a great family day out 12 miles away (20 minutes). Norwich city centre is 22 miles (35 minutes) for shopping and cathedral visits.

Tawny Owl Barn suits families and couples wanting a proper countryside retreat with genuine barn character.

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Need To Know

Tawny Owl Barn Prices

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What Guests Love

What do previous guests think about their group stay at Tawny Owl Barn

Exposed Beams & Vaulted Ceilings

Original timber beams and high vaulted ceilings create an impressive space that showcases the barn's agricultural heritage throughout the living areas.

Wood-Burning Stove

The traditional wood burner provides cosy warmth and atmosphere on cooler evenings, perfect for relaxing after countryside walks.

Rural Norfolk Setting

Peaceful countryside location with open farmland views and direct access to walking routes straight from the door.

Original Stone Walls

Authentic stonework throughout the barn reminds you of the building's farming past and adds real character to every room.

Spacious Open-Plan Living

Kitchen, dining and sitting areas flow together under the high ceiling, making it ideal for families to gather together.

Dark Sky Stargazing

Minimal light pollution means you can see stars clearly on clear nights, something impossible in towns and cities.

Getting To Tawny Owl Barn

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach Tawny Owl Barn by car, take the A1075 towards Watton and follow signs for the surrounding villages. The barn is located in rural Norfolk near IP25 7RP with convenient off-road parking for two cars upon arrival.

By Train

For those travelling by rail, the nearest station is Thetford, approximately 12 miles away. From there, a taxi will take you through the Norfolk countryside to the barn.

Off-road parking for two cars
Thetford station (12 miles)
Easily accessible from the A1075

Group Attractions & More Nearby

Stuff for larger groups and families to try!

Banham Zoo
Distance: 12 miles
NR16 2HE
Oxburgh Hall
Distance: 7 miles
PE33 9PS
Norwich Cathedral
Distance: 22 miles
NR1 4DH
Thetford Forest
Distance: 8 miles
IP27 0AF
Wayland Wood
Distance: 4 miles
IP25 6DT
Peddars Way Trail
Distance: 6 miles
PE37 8AZ
Watton Town Centre
Distance: 3 miles
IP25 6AB
Norwich City Centre
Distance: 22 miles
NR2 1TF
Swaffham Market
Distance: 9 miles
PE37 7AB
Thetford Bus Station
Distance: 12 miles
IP24 2AU
Watton Medical Centre
Distance: 3 miles
IP25 6AH
Tesco Watton
Distance: 3 miles
IP25 6AB
Banham Zoo
Distance: 12 miles
NR16 2HE
Oxburgh Hall
Distance: 7 miles
PE33 9PS
Norwich Cathedral
Distance: 22 miles
NR1 4DH
Thetford Forest
Distance: 8 miles
IP27 0AF
Wayland Wood
Distance: 4 miles
IP25 6DT
Peddars Way Trail
Distance: 6 miles
PE37 8AZ
Watton Town Centre
Distance: 3 miles
IP25 6AB
Norwich City Centre
Distance: 22 miles
NR2 1TF
Swaffham Market
Distance: 9 miles
PE37 7AB
Thetford Bus Station
Distance: 12 miles
IP24 2AU
Watton Medical Centre
Distance: 3 miles
IP25 6AH
Tesco Watton
Distance: 3 miles
IP25 6AB

Is Tawny Owl Barn Right For Your Group

Discover why this cottage is the one for your party or family reunion...

For Families
The surrounding Norfolk countryside provides plenty of outdoor space for children to explore safely. Banham Zoo sits 12 miles away with animals and play areas. Thetford Forest offers cycling and walking trails suitable for families. The barn's open-plan layout means parents can supervise easily while children play. No dedicated play equipment exists at the property itself.
Groups Will Love...
The vaulted ceilings with exposed timber beams create the most impressive feature of this barn conversion. Original agricultural beams span the full width of the living spaces, drawing your eye upward and creating a sense of space. These authentic structural timbers remind you of the building's farming heritage. The high ceilings allow natural light to flood through, making the interior feel airy and spacious throughout the day.
Pet Friendly
Tawny Owl Barn does not accept pets. The rural Norfolk setting with surrounding farmland and countryside walks would suit dogs perfectly. However, the property owners maintain a strict no-pets policy. If you're travelling with a dog, you'll need to find alternative accommodation. The open fields and quiet lanes nearby would have been ideal for daily walks and outdoor exercise.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at Tawny Owl Barn

The Wayland Wood Inn

Located 4 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: IP25 6DT

The Crown Inn Watton

Located 3 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: IP25 6AE

Elveden Courtyard Cafe

Located 14 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: IP24 3TQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about Tawny Owl Barn

Is Tawny Owl Barn pet friendly?
The barn does not accept pets. The rural location and open farmland nearby would suit dogs, but the owners maintain a no-pets policy for this property.
What original barn features does it have?
Exposed timber beams run across the vaulted ceilings throughout the living spaces. Original stone walls and traditional agricultural features remind you this was once a working farm building.
How many guests does the barn sleep?
Three bedrooms sleep up to six guests. The main bedroom includes an en-suite bathroom and there's a family bathroom serving the other two bedrooms.
What is the kitchen like?
The open-plan kitchen has modern appliances and connects directly to the dining area and sitting room. High ceilings and beams overhead maintain the barn character while you cook.
Is there parking at the barn?
Off-road parking is available for two cars. The rural location means you'll want a car to explore Norfolk's villages, forests and market towns.
What can children do at Tawny Owl Barn?
The surrounding countryside offers space for outdoor play and exploration. Nearby Banham Zoo (12 miles) and Thetford Forest (8 miles) provide excellent family days out.
How far is the nearest shop?
Watton town centre sits approximately 3 miles away with supermarkets and local shops. You'll want to stock up on supplies before arriving at this rural barn.
What makes this barn special for a holiday?
The combination of genuine agricultural features, peaceful countryside setting and spacious vaulted interiors creates an authentic barn experience. You're truly away from urban noise and light pollution here.

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Tawny Owl Barn Reviews

Friendly welcome. Beautifully quiet and restful. Owls calling in the nearby ash tree were a delight.
Stanley
The property is small but ideal for two people the owner is very helpful and ... The property is small but ideal for two people the owner is very helpful and assists with everything that you need the property is in a beautiful part of the country and is very quiet but in a central location for all parts of Norfolk
Valerie
This is our third visit to the Tawny Owl Barn and we have already booked for next year. The barn is compact but there is everything you need to make your stay comfortable. It is situated on Copelands Farm where there are horses, two cats and a very friendly young black labrador called Ivy. Mr and Mrs Stanley are very sociable and welcoming.
Had a wonderful stay this week. Wonderful and friendly owners, with two beautiful dogs, cats and horses. It had everything you need for your stay, i would definitely recommend staying here. I know we will definitely be returning. Such beautiful sights, scenery and hosts. Wish we had a few more nights booked as the stay wasn't long enough. Thank you! Meg & Jack
We found the owners friendly and approachable. The apartment was very clean and comfortable, with everything you could need for a short break. The stabled horses, with paddocks and extensive grounds were very special. A warm welcome from the families two black Labrador's Ivy & Sid, along with roaming Deer, Hares and pheasants are something we will remember. Our Labrador Bailey, especially enjoyed the early morning walks, through the top field and woodlands. All in all, a venue we would be happy to recommend.
We had the most enjoyable and relaxing time would totally recommend . If you want to just relax and have a rest in the most beautiful surroundings i would totally recommend . But it says broadband WifI if your used to fast broadband this isn't but that's my only down side .. But other than that great place to stay ...
Michael
A Lovely setting for lots of walks. Accomodation is as it says ....a studio all facilities in one room with a door to bathroom and lovely shower. closset has to double as a wardrobe. No problem if you dont bring a lot of clothes to hang up for your stay. Friendly couple who run the 20 acres. with beautiful horses stabled and two lovely dogs.
A very relaxing weekend stay. The hosts were most welcoming and take pride in their property which was clean, tidy, and well equipped. A lovely location which affords peace and quiet, and with plenty of wildlife around. We will certainly be looking to repeat the stay in the future.
Denise
Spotlessly clean and well equipped accommodation. Everything you need. Set in a beautiful location. So peaceful and relaxing. Very dog friendly. Super comfy bed and great wifi. Ideal base to explore Norfolk's beaches, city, forests etc. Accommodation is set in the most immaculate, well kept surroundings. Greeted by very welcoming owners. Nothing was too much trouble. Lovely to know they are on hand if you need anything but also very unintrusive. Would definitely recommend and will be returning for another relaxing break.
Nice location. As soon as we arrived the owner came into the cottage with the a list of rules.He could have left them with us to read in our own time,but decided to go through each rule while standing there,emphasising as if we were children,he also said if we break the rules we will be sent packing !!.Good way to start your holiday !.Also said the gate will be locked at 10pm,so here's the code to openclose the gate.Also told strick rules in making sure all our rubbish,was to be separated.We are on holiday !.Disappointed only 1 3 drawer unit,no wardrobe,all clothes had to be left in suitcases.He also had the habit of just walking into the cottage without asking,we found this very intrusive.Would not return to this property.
Jacqueline
Thoroughly enjoyed my stay and would highly recommend the barns. Exceptionally clean accommodation in private and peaceful surroundings with easy access to the the beautiful forest and coastal areas of North Norfolk.
Just fabulous if you need to escape from everything this is the place for you I recently lost my mother so I just wanted to escape from everything! ! These hosts are amazing and go above and beyond to make sure you have everything you need to enjoy your break its so serene and peaceful waking up to the beautiful surroundings and wildlife are amazing and the owners beautiful horses and of course the beautiful Sid who will come and greet you every morning the dog who loves all dogs so dog friendly will definitely return its a 12 out of 10 for sure many thanks to you both for your hospitality Sharon and Pete xx
Michael
Excellent stay. The apartment has everything you need for a lovely peaceful holiday.Clean,tidy and comfortable.The owners were very helpful and easy to talk to.Sid the dog and the Labrador puppy were a joy.We would recommend this property. Mike and Julia
Lorraine
Friendly and helpful hosts, lovely to meet Sid the black lab he was waiting for Poppy our dog most mornings. Very clean and comfortable accommodation.
This is a lovely studio barn conversion. Equipped with everything you need, unless you plan to do gourmet cooking. The WiFi works, not always the case when out in the countryside, the bed is comfy again not always so and the small patio area ideal for breakfast or afternoon tea. Downsides, none of which are serious, but just so you know. The lane leading to the farm is narrow and twisty and one of the locals seem to be training for a rallying event. We met him once and afterwards Max the owner gave us advice on an alternative route out to the main road. The shower is not the best, but does the job, as it's an instant heat model not a mains power shower, but the cubicle is large and not one where you keep bashing your elbows. The lighting in the kitchen area is subdued and could do with at least one bright light. Max is a character, helpful and always on hand with friendly advice.
William
Made to feel very welcome by the owners, lovely location, very relaxing.
Owners were very friendly and helpful lovley very clean place and peaceful too
Arrived to a warm welcome from the owners. Throughout the holiday it was nice to see the owners around the farm to give a friendly wave or a chat. Weve stayed places where you are ignored. It was lovely to watch the horses training in the mornings come rain or shine and also to watch the herd of Sika deer explore the farm in the evening. The barn is warm and cosy with everything you could possibly need for your stay. This is a great location for exploring the area. An hour from the beach and half an hour from multiple walks at Thetford forest. Wed recommend the water gardens at Gooderstone for a tranquil walk.
We felt very relaxed in the cottage, the owners are a very welcoming couple.
Patricia
Lovely little Studio, very nice people and made welcome.
Michelle
Just back from a weeks stay at the Tawny owl,highly recommended! !!!! It,s in a beautiful location with easy access to see so much of Norfolk. The owners are lovely and always on hand to help if you need them for anything. The barns are done to perfection and of high standard,everything you will need is there for you,they have thought of everything which will make your stay even easier. A truly hidden gem!!!! We will definitely return as we just loved being there so peaceful and relaxing but especially to spend time again with the lovely Sid
Richard
A very friendly couple with a wonderful cottage in a quiet country location. The cottage being easy to find,clean and having all the necessary modern facilities.
Lovely farm but lots of flies due to horses , we really had a nice time there ... Lovely farm but lots of flies due to horses , we really had a nice time there they just need a few extras like bigger breakfast dishes, pint glasses etc 9 out 10 relaxing clean tidy
Christine
Lovely place and surroundings. Accommodation clean and comfortable and a safe,secure garden for my dog. Owners very friendly and helpful. Will definitely book again when visiting Norfolk as it's central and easy to get to the coast and places of interest.
Our landlord was extremely helpful and friendly he made us feel really welcome . We loved seeing his wife's horses she was lovely. If you need peace and quiet on your holiday we recommend that you stay here nature is good here .our accommodation was so good and the bed was extremely comfortable. We can't fault this lovely place. And if you want to you can ride one of Andreas horses .
What a fantastic place to stay, high class self catering accommodation at it's best. Max is a great host very friendly and knowledgeable about the local area. If your looking for peace and quiet in relaxing surroundings this is the place for you. Situated approx 1 km from the geographical centre of Norfolk no where is more than an hour away. We can thoroughly recommend a trip to the beach at Wellsnextthesea followed a hot chocolate in the dog friendly beach cafe or fish and chips at either of the 2 fish and chip shops by the harbour. Tip don't park on the harbour, very expensive, park in the public car park about 200m away or down by the beach.
The friendly greeting and cleanliness of the property made this an exceptional weeks holiday
Richard
A lovely property which was spotlessly clean. Situated in a peaceful location.
Lovely location great for visiting other places in Norfolk but equally so, enjoyable for a quiet and relaxing weekend, would definitely recommend to others, Max and Andrea very nice hosts, and the dog loved being able to sit outside in the patio garden and watch the sun go down too! Had a very nice weekend.
Sandra
Perfect place to relax, clean & tidy owners very friendly & helpful
Jackie
Unfortunately our holiday was cut short by bad weather. Max the owner was a lovely guy who made us feel welcome . This property was the cleanest we have ever stayed in had the weather been better we would of been reluctant to leave . We would recommend Tawny owl barn to any one who wants a quiet restful holiday holiday.
This holiday exceeded our expectations by a long way. From the moment we arrived Max and his wife went the extra mile making us welcome, explaining everything we needed to know about our stay. Maxs advice on local issues we found very helpful. Overall we cannot praise and thank them enough for a fantastic break Kind regards Dave and Frances Tobutt
Teresa
This barn was perfect for our stay in Norfolk. Mr and Mrs Stanley are a charming couple who were very helpful and made our stay there most comfortable. The view from the barn is stunning and we loved to watch the wildlife from our bed in the morning. Their beautiful horses are amazing. In all ,a perfect location, great hosts and a place we will certainly be returning to. Paul and Terri Candler.
Fantastic!! Beautifully presented with everything you could need . Wonderful welcome from Max and exactly the peaceful place we wanted. Easy access to travel out and about if you wanted to or just sit and while the time away watching the horses during the day and bats over the garden at dusk. We will definitely be back.
A truly enjoyable holiday and the accommodation was excellent. The owners were friendly and very welcoming worth recommending
The accommodation we stayed in had the wow factor. It was clean and had everything we needed, and was tastefully decorated. There was also the novelty factor, us being townies, the barn was situated within the grounds of riding stables so we were able to watch their horses being put through their paces whilst having breakfast, how often do you see that? All in all a very enjoyable stay, and we would certainly go back and stay there again.
Robert
The peace and tranquility of this location is beyond compare, our hosts were attentive friendly and helpful though not obtrusive. The accomodation was spick and span with modern in decor.
Tawny owl barn was a fantastic place to stay. Well equipped & beautifully kept. We actually got to see an owl on one of the nights we stayed along with deer. The owners were very welcoming & friendly & nothing was to much trouble. We would highly recommend tawny owl cottage for a holiday. Thank you very much for a lovely week.
Victoria
Really nice place but owner a bit over friendly
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