Virginia Rowe escapes the urban jungle and goes in search of the cosiest country boltholes with roasty toasty open fires…

…Plan a wild weekend house party and head down to camp-as-Christmas Carrington House in Norfolk. Every turn is a riotous mix of pattern and colour, featuring endless streams of statement lighting and clusters of over-sized ornamental knick-knackery. Our merry venture down to the basement party room revealed a well-stocked dressing-up rail, karaoke system and DJ decks. And for respite? The adjoining 60s-decorated cottage is perfect for a pre-party disco nap in front of the fire…