m+TRAVEL: Fritton Lake is The Wild, Family Friendly Escape We All Need this summer
If you’ve ever dreamt of escaping to the countryside without sacrificing good coffee, stylish accommodation or a sense of community, Fritton Lake might just be your place. Tucked away on the Norfolk–Suffolk border, this nature retreat and private members’ club is built for people who want to slow down, stretch out, and actually enjoy family time (yes, even with toddlers in tow).
Fritton is part of the 5,000-acre Somerleyton Estate — a visionary rewilding project led by Hugh and Lara Somerleyton who have spent the last 25 years restoring wildflower meadows, regenerating woodlands, and reimagining what modern rural living can look like. It's nature first, but not in the way you might think.
Wild Swimming at Fritton Lake
Think Scandi-style off-grid cabins (designed by Koto) nestled in the trees, a 16th-century clubhouse with roaring fires and chic heritage bedrooms and a lakeside sauna that feels like something from a Nordic spa.
Koto Cabin at Fritton Lake
Whilst it may look like an adults only escape, families are more than welcome. There’s a sprawling adventure playground complete with zip wires and a bouncy pillow, wild swimming and paddleboarding in the lake, and nature safaris where you might spot highland cattle, black pigs, or even Exmoor ponies.
Trails wind through the woods for biking or buggy-friendly walks, and a new poolside restaurant is on the way, making it the sort of place where the kids can actually be kids and get to grips with nature in a refreshing way.
Family fun in the pool at Fritton Lake
Adventure Playground at Fritton Lake
It’s less a hotel, more a way of life and if you're tempted to stay longer, this can be arranged. Fritton Lake now offers the chance to own your own off-plan holiday home by the lake, blending wilderness with design led living.
Whether you’re in for a long weekend, a summer break or something more permanent, it’s a family escape that doesn’t ask you to compromise on comfort, conscience or style.
How to book
Stays start from £180 per night and include access to all facilities.
Visit frittonlake.co.uk for availability, membership details, and accommodation options.