Peacock Barn · Emus, Lake & Firepit · Norfolk

Bath an emu. Collect your own eggs. Toast marshmallows by the lake. Peacock Barn is a 3-bed eco-barn on 4 acres of Norfolk countryside — and a petting zoo full of very friendly animals.

The barn
A bright, open-plan space with a large kitchen island, dining table for six, two leather sofas, and double doors onto a slate patio. Underfloor heating throughout — powered by our air source heat pump and solar panels, so cosy in winter and low-impact year-round. Sleeps 6 across 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms (one with a bath and toilet, one with a shower and toilet).

The grounds — your private petting zoo
Four acres of Norfolk countryside, all yours to roam. The animals are the headline:

Emmet the emu (famously dopy, loves a hose-down) and his two female companions, in their own paddock
Peacocks roaming the grounds — yes, that's where the name comes from
Guinea fowl with absolutely no road sense
Ouessant sheep — the smallest breed in the world
Hens and ducks whose eggs you're welcome to collect for breakfast
Our Shetland sheepdog and two papillons (mum and daughter), who will adore any attention going

There's a lake (with fish always eager to be fed), a firepit with free wood, two BBQs, picnic tables, and fruit trees — blackcurrants, gooseberries, plums, apples and pears in season. Pick what you like.

A guided tour of the animals
We're always happy to walk you round — collecting eggs, feeding the sheep, hosing down the emus. Friends who've stayed call it "living in your own petting zoo." For animal-loving kids it's hard to beat.

The 1715 mill next door
We've just finished restoring the listed mill on the property. Four floors, three hundred years of history, brilliant views from the top — happy to give you a tour during your stay (free of charge).

What we leave out for you
Salt, pepper, herbs, oil, fresh milk, and eggs from the ducks and hens. Books, DVDs, Netflix, family games, and a big box of Lego. An Alexa linked to a full music subscription so you can play whatever you fancy. A ping pong table, and a trampoline in the grounds.

Arrival
A well-lit gravel drive leads to plenty of parking right beside the barn.
Where you are
Tucked into the Norfolk countryside near Wisbech.

Beaches: RSPB Titchwell Marsh is 20 minutes away (the beach reached by a walk through the bird reserve). Hunstanton (30 mi), Holkham (40 mi).
Wildlife: RSPB Titchwell Marsh, RSPB Snettisham, Welney Wetland Centre, Watatunga Wildlife Reserve.
Royal & stately: Sandringham Estate (the King's private residence, 20 mi), Houghton Hall, Holkham Hall.
Cities: Ely (25 mi), Cambridge, Norwich.
Family days out: Snettisham Park (lambs, deer safari), Bircham Windmill, SEA LIFE Sanctuary, Flag Fen.
Dinner: The Rose & Crown, Snettisham (Norfolk Dining Pub of the Year 2020) and The Dabbling Duck, Great Massingham.