Magical MOMENTS

Amanda Townsend has lovingly created an idyllic retreat that's the ideal setting for memorable family gatherings

- JANET MCMEEKIN

As Amanda Townsend strolled into a cosy, brick-and-flint cottage with an inviting inglenook fireplace, she knew immediately where the Christmas tree would go. 'I was bubbling with anticipation when I arrived for the viewing and instantly felt that the cottage was really special; somewhere to make joyful festive memories with a roaring fire and beautifully decorated tree,' she says.

When Amanda and her husband, Taras, who live in Suffolk, began searching for a holiday bolthole in 2011, they hadn't initially thought about buying in north Norfolk. 'France had actually been our first idea, but we soon realised it made much more sense to stay closer to home,' she adds.

Hiring a homefinder, within weeks several options materialised, including Ford House in the quaint village of Docking. At the time, the cottage felt rather oppressive, Amanda says. "The previous couple had filled the house with dark furniture and some rather colourful pieces and artefacts.' Despite not being to Amanda's taste, she loved the cottage's 'good bones', the Aga, and myriad period features, including gnarled beams and characterful doors.