I don’t know what you know about Norfolk, but I can’t be the only one that instantly thinks of Norwich’s most famous broadcaster, yes… I am talking about Alan Partridge. But let’s be real here, Norfolk is a lot more than a comedic parody act that we all love to hate.

Norfolk, in the far east of England, has an interesting Saxon history. Being set within the right-hand side ‘bulge’ of the United Kingdom, this is one of the first areas that our Scandinavian neighbours arrived it. Norfolk was the northern half of the Kingdom of East Anglia and was ruled by the Anglo-Saxon Wuffing dynasty, unfortunately, we don’t know all that much about the people, it seems they didn’t like writing things down… Norwich is the hub of the county and was even the largest city in England after London during the medieval times, right up until the Industrial Revolution. This surprises some, Norwich is often thought of as a ‘country city’, surrounded by thousands of fields and undeniably is one of the most secluded cities in the UK.

Because of its isolation, Norfolk is one of the least densely populated counties of England, but this also means you can buy a beautiful home for the fraction of the cost of houses in the home counties. Norfolk is beautiful, with one of the longest coastlines in the country, perfect for dog walkers, country lovers and people who just enjoy clean air.

Below are some of my favourite houses currently on the market in this not so small corner of England:

The Green, Saxlingham Nethergate

In a world of ever increasing house prices, it seems nuts to me that it is possible to buy a beautiful period property with over 3 acres of land for just £595,000 ($759,000 USD). No, I’m not saying that’s affordable for everyone but when you consider a 3 bedroom home in Hertfordshire with a tiny garden costs far more than this, it is a bit of a steal.

This Grade II listed cottage dates back to the 17th century and has been recently updated by its current owners (underfloor heating included) so you don’t have to do a thing!

The Street, Wramplingham

A little more pricy than the house on the green, this Georgian country home is on the market for an eye-watering £1.65 million, but it is set within 6 acres of stunning gardens. The house is Grade II listed but an extension has been added onto the back of the house so it has undergone a level of modernisation.

The downstairs reception rooms make full use of the views out into the garden and there are a number of bay windows (my favourite!)

Belmont Grange, Scole

With 3 cottages that can be let out, £2 million doesn’t seem like the worst price tag in the world. After all, Norfolk is a very popular holiday destination, so during the high season, there is a fair amount of money to be made!

Morningthorpe, Norfolk

This beautifully restored manor house is on the market for a cool £1.6 million! Its charm, beauty and grandeur make it a great home to possibly turn into a wedding venue or something of the like.

Grade II listed, this home dates back to the 17th century and has oodles of its past dotted all around, it was substantially extended in the 18th century but still has the original staircase built in the 1600s. All the bathrooms have been refurbished, a brand new kitchen wing, the introduction of heating and the roof has been completely replaced too.

Whitwell, Norwich

This Grade II listed home is currently under offer to one very lucky buyer. With total privacy and seclusion, the residents of valley farmhouse can enjoy the full country experience at this house. There is also an onsite barn that can be converted into a number of different venues or uses.

It is thought the home dates back to 1700 and fell into disrepair until the 1970s when a previous owner bought and refurbished the property.

All properties can be found via the Savills and Knight Frank websites. Please note this article is in no way affiliated with either business.