Nestled in the tranquil Fenland countryside, Lode Hall Country Park has been a cherished part of the Johnson family for generations. Originally a working farm, Lode Hall has evolved over time, with the family transforming it into a peaceful retreat that blends historic charm with modern comfort. The estate now offers a collection of stylish adults-only lodges, alongside Lode Hall itself and the Coach House, which are perfect for family stays. Each property reflects our family’s dedication to preserving the estate’s heritage while providing a welcoming space for guests to relax and unwind. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family celebration, or a quiet countryside escape, Lode Hall Country Park offers a unique experience where history, nature, and hospitality come together.
about us
We believe that every moment is precious, offering customers a truly relaxing and calming experience is at our core.
quality breaks with relaxation in mind
We are lode hall county park
holidays and breaks with luxury in mind, peace and TRANQUILITY with stunning views over fenland
We are dedicated to
Amenities
downham market
Steeped in history and character, Downham Market blends old-world charm with modern comforts. Wander its traditional market square, visit local tea rooms, or take a riverside stroll — this delightful market town is the perfect complement to a peaceful lodge retreat.
Independent shops and boutiques – charming local stores and gift shops in the town centre
Cafés, pubs and restaurants – a mix of cosy tearooms, traditional pubs, and modern eateries
Traditional market – held in the town square every Friday and Saturday, offering local produce and crafts
Train station – regular services to King’s Lynn, Ely, Cambridge, and London King’s Cross
Parks and walks – riverside paths along the Great Ouse and local green spaces like Memorial Fields
Leisure centre – fitness facilities, swimming pool, and sports amenities
Heritage attractions – including the Town Clock, St Edmund’s Church, and nearby Denver Windmill
Nature nearby – close to Welney Wetland Centre and the scenic Norfolk Fens
Supermarkets and essentials – Tesco, lidl, Morrisons, and a range of convenience stores and pharmacies
Nestled in the heart of the Cambridgeshire Fens, Wisbech is a charming Georgian market town rich in history, character, and quiet beauty. Stroll along its elegant Georgian streets, explore the stately Peckover House, or wander by the River Nene — all just a short distance from our peaceful luxury accommodation..
wisbech
Independent shops and boutiques – a variety of local stores, antique shops, and hidden gems in the historic town centre
Cafés, pubs and restaurants – from riverside dining to cosy tearooms and traditional English pubs
Weekly market – offering local produce, crafts, and goods in the Market Place
Museums and heritage sites – including Peckover House & Garden, Wisbech & Fenland Museum, and Elgood’s Brewery Gardens
Riverside walks – peaceful strolls along the River Nene with views of Georgian architecture
Parks and gardens – such as Wisbech Park and the Secret Garden for outdoor relaxation
Arts and culture – local galleries, theatres, and community events throughout the year
Supermarkets and essentials – Tesco, Aldi,
Asda, and other convenience stores within easy reach
Transport links – good road connections to King’s Lynn, Downham Market, Ely, and Peterborough
Amenities
Just a short journey away, Ely is a picturesque Cathedral City known for its stunning architecture and riverside charm. From the magnificent Ely Cathedral to boutique shopping streets and waterside cafés, it offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation.
Ely
Historic attractions – explore the magnificent Ely Cathedral, Oliver Cromwell’s House, and the city’s charming medieval streets
Independent shops and boutiques – a mix of artisan stores, galleries, and speciality food shops around the city centre
Cafés, pubs and restaurants – riverside dining by the Great Ouse, cosy cafés, and award-winning restaurants
Markets – regular general, farmers’, and craft markets held in the Market Place throughout the week
Riverside walks and marina – scenic walks, boat trips, and picnic spots along the Great Ouse waterfront
Museums and culture – Ely Museum, Babylon Gallery, and year-round arts and music festivals
Parks and open spaces – Jubilee Gardens and Cherry Hill Park for relaxing outdoor time
Supermarkets and essentials – Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Tesco, and local convenience stores
Transport links – direct train connections to Cambridge, London, Norwich, and King’s Lynn, plus excellent road access via the A10
Amenities
Once a bustling Hanseatic medieval port, King’s Lynn is now a beautifully preserved market town where heritage and culture meet. Stroll along its historic quays, admire centuries-old architecture, and enjoy a lively mix of shops, galleries, and riverside dining.
Kings Lynn
Historic attractions – explore centuries of heritage at True’s Yard Fisherfolk Museum, the Custom House, and Lynn Museum
Architecture and landmarks – discover medieval guildhalls, cobbled streets, and the beautiful St Margaret’s Church in the Saturday Market Place
Independent shops and boutiques – a blend of local artisans, fashion stores, and unique finds in the town centre
Cafés, pubs and restaurants – a wide choice of riverside dining, traditional pubs, and modern eateries
Markets – regular Tuesday and Saturday markets offering fresh produce, crafts, and local goods
Arts and culture – enjoy exhibitions and performances at King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, the Arts Centre, and local galleries
Parks and green spaces – The Walks, a historic urban park perfect for walks and picnics
Supermarkets and essentials – Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Morrisons, Aldi, Lidl, and a range of convenience stores
Transport links – mainline train station with direct services to Ely, Cambridge, and London King’s Cross, plus excellent road access via the A47 and A10
Amenities
Summary
Local Attractions and Countryside Highlights
The area surrounding Lode Hall Country Park offers the very best of the Cambridgeshire and Norfolk countryside — a landscape of wide open skies, peaceful waterways, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, local history, or a tranquil spot to unwind, there’s something for everyone within easy reach.
Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Enjoy the unique beauty of the Fens, with their vast horizons and rich wildlife. The WWT Welney Wetland Centre, just a short drive away, is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, offering seasonal wildlife spectacles and peaceful walking trails. Nearby Thetford Forest Park provides miles of woodland paths, cycle routes, and picnic spots — perfect for families or couples looking for a day in nature.
Historic Houses & Gardens
The region is rich in stately homes and gardens. Peckover House and Gardens in Wisbech is a beautifully preserved Georgian townhouse with a tranquil walled garden, while Sandringham Estate, the country retreat of His Majesty The King, offers grand woodland walks, landscaped gardens, and a fascinating museum. Oxburgh Hall, a moated Tudor mansion managed by the National Trust, is another nearby highlight with its ornate interiors and stunning grounds.
Charming Market Towns
The nearby towns of Wisbech, Downham Market, Ely, and King’s Lynn each offer something special — from Georgian architecture and weekly markets to riverside dining and boutique shopping. Wander through cobbled streets, explore historic landmarks, or enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of the many independent cafés and restaurants.
Days Out Further Afield
Within an hour’s drive, you can reach the North Norfolk Coast, famous for its golden beaches, seal watching trips, and charming coastal villages like Wells-next-the-Sea and Blakeney. The historic city of Cambridge is also easily accessible for a day trip — stroll along the River Cam, go punting beneath the bridges, or explore its world-class museums and colleges.
Local Food & Country Life
Closer to home, enjoy a taste of the countryside with local produce from farm shops and markets. Sample regional cheeses, homemade cakes, or freshly baked bread, or enjoy hearty meals in traditional village pubs dotted across the Fenland landscape. Many of these venues pride themselves on using locally sourced ingredients, offering an authentic flavour of rural East Anglia.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Lode Hall Country Park is perfectly placed for both.
From peaceful walks and heritage sites to wildlife encounters and coastal escapes, every day offers a new discovery in this timeless corner of the English countryside.
Arbuckles
• Cuisine: American, British
• Highlights: Known for hearty breakfasts, burgers, and ribs.
• Phone: 01366 388881
• Website: www.arbuckles.biz
The Downham Tandoori Restaurant
• Cuisine: Indian, Asian
• Highlights: Offers a variety of traditional Indian dishes.
• Phone: 01366 386110
• Website: downhamtandoori.co.uk
Titash Indian Restaurant
• Cuisine: Indian, Asian
• Highlights: Provides a range of flavorful Indian dishes.
• Phone: 01366 388611
• Website: titashdownham.co.uk
Phansa Thai Restaurant & Takeaway
• Cuisine: Thai
• Highlights: Authentic Thai cuisine available for dine-in and takeaway.
• Phone: 01366 388147
• Website: phansathai.co.uk
My Canteen Pizza & Kebab
• Cuisine: Pizza, Kebab, Fast Food
• Highlights: Offers a variety of pizzas, kebabs, and fast food options.
• Phone: 01366 383850
• Website: my-canteen.co.uk
The Greenhouse
• Cuisine: British, Café
• Highlights: Serves freshly cooked food, artisan coffee, and cakes.
• Phone: 01366 381190
• Website: thegreenhousenorfolk.com
The Cave Kitchen
• Cuisine: Mediterranean, Turkish, Meze
• Highlights: Offers Mediterranean and Turkish dishes in a wine bar setting.
• Phone: 01366 659351
• Website: thecavekitchen.co.uk
Giardini di NAXOS
• Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
• Highlights: Family-run restaurant offering authentic Italian and Mediterranean dishes.
• Phone: 01366 858283
• Website: giardinidinaxos.co.uk
Allium
• Cuisine: British
• Highlights: Bistro-style dining with a focus on seasonal British ingredients.
• Phone: 01366 384000
• Website: alliumnorfolk.co.uk
not in any order of preference
downham market places to eat
The Elm Tree Inn
• Cuisine: British pub classics
• Highlights: Comfortable rooms, traditional meals, welcoming atmosphere
• Phone: 0808 5034021
• Website: elmtreeinn.com
The Moorings Restaurant
• Cuisine: Modern British and French cuisine
• Highlights: AA Rosette-awarded, stylish ambiance, seasonal menus
• Phone: 01945 773391
• Website: thecrownlodgehotel.co.uk
Lamb and Flag
📞 Tel: 01354 610242
🌐 Website: lambandflagwelney.com
• Cuisine: Traditional British pub food
• Highlights: Homemade meals, Sunday roasts, large beer garden
Full menu served every lunch time and evening Wednesday to Saturday.
Sunday roast only, crazy steak night on thursday.
booking advisable!
places to eat continued
not in any order of preference
Russell’s Family Butchers
📍 Upwell, Norfolk
📞 Tel: 01945 780248
We’re proud to source our high-quality meat from Russell’s Family Butchers in Upwell. Known for their locally sourced, ethically raised produce and traditional butchery skills, Russell’s supply the delicious meats included in our breakfast packs for our lodges. From hearty sausages to succulent bacon, every product reflects their commitment to quality and flavour — giving our guests a true taste of Norfolk.
Russells Family Butchers
Owsley-Brown Catering Co
📞 Tel: 01553 810755
🌐 Website: www.owsley-brown.com
Private chef services for home events, offering full meal preparation and service
Norfolk County Catering
📞 Tel: 01362 696610
🌐 Website: www.norfolkcountycatering.com
Private chef services for in-home dining, weddings, and special events.
Hogroast Catering
📞 Tel: 07926 368431
🌐 Website: www.hogroastcatering.com
Sweet things Savoury
📞 Tel: 01945 465737
🌐 Website: www.sweetyhingssavoury.com
afternoon teas, cakes and Buffetts
private chefs/in house caterers
not in any order of preference
Dents Farm & Fishery
📍 Steels Drove, Hilgay, Downham Market, Norfolk, PE38 0QH
📞 07979 954354
📧 info@dentsfarmhilgay.co.uk
🌐 www.dentsfarmhilgay.co.uk
Nar Valley Fisheries
📍 Abbey Road, Pentney, Nr King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE32 1JT
📞 07900 285313
🌐 www.narvalleyfisheries.co.uk
Manor Farm Fishing Lake
📍 Watlington Road, Runcton Holme, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE33 0EJ
📞 07768 164008
📧 info@coates-bros.co.uk
🌐 www.manorfarmrunctonholme.co.uk
/fishing-lake/
Oxborough Lakes
📍 Swaffham Road, Oxborough, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE33 9FP
📞 07831 455446
🌐 www.oxboroughlakes.co.uk/contact.html
Townsend Lakes Fishery
📞 01945 774008
Lakeside Fisheries
📞 07961367773
🌐 www.lakesidefisheries.weebly.coml
Fishing
not in any order of preference
Discover Downham Heritage Centre
🌐 www.discoverdownham.org.uk
📞 01366 776833
Church Farm, Stow Bardolph
🌐 www.churchfarmstowbardolph.co.uk
📞 01366 382162
Denver Windmill
🌐 www.denverwindmill.co.uk
📞 01366 389701
Stow Hall Gardens
🌐 www.stowhallgardens.co.uk
📞 01366 382185
Castle Acre Priory (English Heritage)
🌐 www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/castle-acre-priory
📞 01760 755394
Welney Wetland Centre (WWT Welney)
🌐 www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/welney
📞 01353 860711
Watatunga Wildlife Reserve
🌐 www.watatunga.co.uk
📞 01553 819766
Castle Rising Castle
🌐 www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/castle-rising-castle
📞 01553 631330
Oxburgh Hall (National Trust)
🌐 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/oxburgh-hall
📞 01366 328258
Norfolk Lavender
🌐 www.norfolk-lavender.co.uk
📞 01485 570384
King’s Lynn Minster & Historic Quarter
🌐 www.kingslynnminster.org
📞 01553 772221
Bircham Windmill
🌐 www.birchamwindmill.co.uk
📞 01485 578393
Peckover House
🌐 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/
cambridgeshire/peckover-house-and-garden
📞 01945 583463
Places to visit
not in any order of preference
Warzone Paintball
Paintball and Airsoft
🌐 www.warzonepaintball.co.uk
📞 07887841366 or 01945 581358
Hourglass Escapes
Escape rooms
🌐 www.hourglassescapes.co.uk
📞 01366 308388
Fenrock Climbing Centre
Indoor Climbing Walls
🌐 www.fenrock.com
📞 07887841366 or 01945 581358
Fen Falconry
🌐 www.fenfalconry.co.uk
📞 01945 419086
Wisbech and Fenland Museum
🌐 www.wisbechmuseum.org.uk
📞 01945 583817
Thurford Steam Engine Museum
🌐 www.thurford.com
📞 01328 878447
Places to visit
not in any order of preference
Ryston Park Golf Club
Denver, Downham Market, Norfolk, PE38 0HH
📞 Tel: 01366 382133
🌐 Website: www.club-noticeboard.co.uk/rystonpark
Denver Golf Club
Sluice Road, Denver, Downham Market, Norfolk, PE38 0EG
📞 Tel: 01366 383666
🌐 Website: www.denvergolfclub.co.uk
King’s Lynn Golf Club
Castle Rising, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE31 6BD
📞 Tel: 01553 631654
📧 Email: manager@kingslynngc.co.uk
🌐 Website: www.kingslynngolfclub.co.uk
Swaffham Golf Club
Cley Road, Swaffham, Norfolk, PE37 8AE
📞 Tel: 01760 721621
📧 Email: manager@swaffhamgc.co.uk
🌐 Website: www.swaffhamgc.co.uk
Ely Golf Club
107 Cambridge Road, Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB7 4HX
📞 Tel: 01353 662751
📧 Email: info@elygolf.co.uk
🌐 Website: www.elygolf.co.uk
Middleton Hall Golf Club
Hall Orchards, Middleton, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE32 1RY
📞 Tel: 01553 841800
📧 Email: enquiries@middletonhallgolfclub.com
🌐 Website: www.middletonhallgolfclub.com
Heacham Manor Golf Course
Hunstanton Road, Heacham, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE31 7JX
📞 Tel: 01485 536030
🌐 Website: www.heacham-manor.co.uk/golf
Hunstanton Golf Club
Golf Course Road, Old Hunstanton, Norfolk, PE36 6JQ
📞 Tel: 01485 532811
🌐 Website: www.hunstantongolfclub.com
Royal West Norfolk Golf Club
Beach Road, Brancaster, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE31 8AX
📞 Tel: 01485 210087
🌐 Website: www.rwngc.org
Golf
not in any order of preference
Lode Hall Farmhouse a grade 2 listed building
A 200 year old Georgian Landowner's home
Originally named London Lode Hall it was purchased by my Grandparents Arthur and Mabel Johnson in 1920, it served as the family home for nearly 100 years until it was turned into Holiday Accomodation in 2017
Both my Father Jack Johnson and myself were born in Lode Hall, in the master bedroom 34 years apart!
Over the years the house has evolved from at first having separate living quarters (and Staircase!) for servants to being fully integrated into a more modern figuration, with several bathrooms added to the one I can remember from my youth
Many of the windows are original and whilst they may now be showing their age, the craftmanship of their design is for all to see.
Full central heating has made a huge difference to the comfort of Lode Hall, it has made it into a cosy home
The Coachhouse a grade 2 listed building
As it's name suggests The Coachhouse was originally built to accommodate the transport of the time 200 years ago
It was then used as a storage barn for huge bags of Wheat Barley or Oats that were grown on the farm
Latterly it was used as Stables, indeed the now kitchen was home to the famous Percheron Stallion "Three Holes Samson" up until his death in 1995
The conversion (finished in 2017) was sympathetically done to keep many of the original features of the beautiful building whilst making a wonderful modern home with underfloor heating and en suite bathrooms
The Coachhouse is a lovely place to stay
Lode Hall Lodges
Lode Hall Lodge Park was opened in 2017 offering guests luxurious holiday lodges with hot tubs
We now have 7 exclusive lodges all with hot tubs catering for adults in a wonderful countryside location
History
At Lode Hall Country Park, we’re dedicated to preserving the beauty of the Fenland countryside for generations to come. Our estate is powered in part by eight of our own wind turbines, helping us reduce our carbon footprint while embracing sustainable energy. We are proud recipients of multiple conservation awards, recognising our commitment to protecting local wildlife and maintaining habitats for birds, plants, and other native species. Every decision we make—from our lodges to our grounds—is guided by sustainability and respect for the natural world, ensuring that guests can enjoy a peaceful escape that celebrates and safeguards the environment.
Our green ethos
After retiring from farming, Dick and Fran decided to transform their former touring caravan site into something special — a luxury lodge retreat in the heart of the Fens. Their original plan was to create a haven of permanent holiday homes where city dwellers could escape to the countryside. However, their vision soon evolved into offering short-stay breaks in beautifully appointed lodges complete with private hot tubs.
The first two lodges welcomed guests in October 2015, and since then the park has grown to include five more lodges, along with the opening of Lode Hall for guest stays in 2016 and The Coach House in September 2017. What began as a family farm has become a tranquil countryside escape, where relaxation and rural charm go hand in hand
Dick and fran johnson
Our founders
info@lode-hall.co.uk
01354 638476
Lee Goody has been the backbone of Lode Hall Country Park for over a decade, bringing dedication, expertise, and a hands-on approach to every aspect of the lodge park. At 46, he manages everything from maintenance to guest services, ensuring that every visitor enjoys a seamless and memorable stay.
Lee is known for his friendly, approachable manner and his commitment to creating a welcoming environment. Whether it’s overseeing the lodges, assisting guests with their needs, or handling day-to-day operations behind the scenes, he takes pride in making sure the park runs smoothly.
Passionate about hospitality and customer satisfaction, Lee combines years of experience with a genuine love for his work, making Lode Hall Country Park not just a place to stay, but a place where guests feel at home.
Meet Lee goody
Our Staff
@Lode-hall