Sleep under the stars as a 700-acre family-friendly nature reserve in the heart of Norfolk is introducing overnight stays. 

Pensthorpe Natural Park, near Fakenham, is set to launch a camping and glamping site for the first time in its history in 2024.

Next year, it will be open from early July until the end of August and there will be 24 tent pitches available to pre-book.

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There will also be six bell tents, intended for a more luxurious glamping experience, which will each house a double bed and two single beds with twinkling fairy lights for decoration. 

Eastern Daily Press: There is lots to see and do for families at Pensthorpe Natural Park Picture: Richard JarmyThere is lots to see and do for families at Pensthorpe Natural Park Picture: Richard Jarmy (Image: Pensthorpe Natural Park)

Owned by Bill and Deb Jordan since 2003, Pensthorpe was originally intended for bird and wildlife spotters.

Over time the reserve has diversified, adding family attractions including Hootz House and WildRootz play areas, all while maintaining its reputation for protecting wildlife.

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Ben Marshall, general manager at Pensthorpe, said: “Here at Pensthorpe, we are passionate about offering new experiences to our visitors and getting them even closer to nature.

"With a new camping and glamping offering, we are giving guests the chance to spend time under the stars enjoying the serenity of the location.

“Norfolk’s tourism industry has been thriving for many years and it is a go-to destination for a staycation.

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Eastern Daily Press: The Wild Rootz play area at Pensthorpe Picture: Steve Adams The Wild Rootz play area at Pensthorpe Picture: Steve Adams (Image: Steve Adams)

“The glamping and camping accommodation is the start of a new era at Pensthorpe for the next 20 years - watch this space." 

The new site will have solar-powered showers and toilets, with arrivals for week-long or short stays on Tuesdays or Fridays.

Guests will also receive discounted entry to the reserve on each day of their stay.

Prices for the tent pitches will start at £30 a night and glamping from £130 per night - visit pensthorpe.com for booking updates.