Nestled on the Norfolk–Suffolk border, Fritton Lake is far more than a peaceful getaway – it’s a bold vision of the future, where nature, sustainability, and adventure meet. Our recent visit offered an unforgettable glimpse into this 1,000-acre nature restoration project, part of the Somerleyton Estate’s ambitious rewilding efforts.
Morning: Jeep Safari & Regenerative Farming
Our day began with a truly thrilling Jeep Safari, a guided journey through the heart of the rewilded landscape. After crossing the lake by boat, Matthew took us bumping along tracks, over meadows blooming with wildflowers and through woodland clearings, where we spotted Exmoor ponies and wild deer, roaming freely. There is also the possibility of seeing large black pigs and Highland cattle, but on this particularly hot day, they were all hiding somewhere shady. Throughout the excitement-packed tour, Matthew shared his extensive knowledge of horticulture and history as well as explaining how the pioneering Wild East project is restoring biodiversity once lost to traditional agriculture.
The experience was peaceful, thought-provoking and exhilarating in equal measure, a living lesson rolled into a rugged adventure.
Midday: BioGym, Adventure Play & Clubhouse Lunch
After returning to the Clubhouse, for a coffee and sweet snacks, we energised with a session in the biophilic gym. Natural light and wood-clad interiors evoke the surroundings, giving a whole new meaning to the phrase ‘working out’.
We explored the adventure play area, travelling through the air on a zip wire and hurtling down a surprisingly lively tunnel slide before heading for lunch.
In the Clubhouse restaurant, dishes celebrate seasonal, estate-sourced ingredients – true farm-to-table fare that complements the overarching rewilded ethos. Outside is lovely and when we sat down, it really felt like we’d left Norfolk – and England – entirely for a Mediterranean holiday. Not a bad vibe for a ‘regular’ Saturday.
Sadly, the sun proved just too much and like the typical Brits we sadly must be, we migrated inside. Inside the bar-adjacent restaurant does a great job of blending contemporary styling with the age of the original building. Formerly The Fritton Arms pub, wooden beams line the ceiling while blues and turquoise accents in the decor complement fresh modern artworks.
Our table near an open window gave us the best of both worlds and the feeling of being on holiday was sustained. We were too, with hearty dishes from the Bar Menu that were delicious and plentiful, and also very good value given we were a party of 5.
Afternoon: Outdoor Pool & Sauna, & Wild Swimming
Post-lunch, after a stroll, it was time for a refreshing dip in the 22 m heated outdoor pool, a haven of relaxation in a beautifully walled garden setting. There are changing rooms at either end, complete with showers (toiletries included) and lockers (no coins required – hooray!), and towels are provided.
Energised, we drifted to the floating sauna – a smooth wooden cabin drifting on the lake. The Koto sauna overlooks the tranquil lake with one wall entirely glass. Though we didn’t experience it on this visit, we’ve been told that sunset sauna sessions are something else…
We alternated the warmth of the sauna with open-water wild swimming, jumping into the cool lake waters, gliding across to a floating pontoon and even brushing the Suffolk shore – an exhilarating dip framed by stunning woodland tranquility.
Late Afternoon: Football & Lakeside Calm
Rounding off the day, Andrew and our youngest borrowed a football and headed to the grassy pitch (with goals), after which we simply followed the lakeside to a little ‘beach’ area, absorbing the golden-hour peace before heading back to a very hot home.
A Holiday Every Day
At Fritton Lake, every moment – from safari to sauna to swimming – is woven into a larger narrative of conservation, wellness, and pure outdoor joy. Whether you’re chasing thrills or tranquillity, this rewilded retreat offers a full-day experience that leaves you enriched and relaxed. And there is so much more on offer than we had time to try.
It really has the feel of a true escape, on your doorstep – from Norwich, it’s a 40 minute drive, but you feel like you’ve been properly ‘away’ after just a day there.
There are options to stay, own a cabin or become a member, all of which gives you access to the array of activities and facilities on offer.
*We were (mostly) gifted this experience so we could share it with you! We’d like to extend our thanks to Sarah G, Hayley M, Matthew S and the team for their marvellous hospitality. Note: Fritton Lake is open for cabin owners, members, and holiday guests only.
