Log Cabins to RentLog cabins are self catering accommodation, but that is not a sentence of one week in the kitchen. It’s an opportunity to start the day at your own pace with breakfast as you like it, and to come and go as you please. But it’s lovely to have a restaurant close by so that you only use that kitchen when you want to. The log cabins below will ensure you never feel chained to the hob or the sink.
The smart and spacious new build, North House, is a holiday maker’s dream. With excellent social space, stunning bathrooms, five gorgeous bedrooms, a fantastic kitchen diner, a beautiful alfresco lounge area and a games room, this wonderful holiday home offers much entertainment and is situated in the celebrated seaside resort of Southwold. Two of the bedrooms offer day beds and the bunk room has a bunk bed with a double on the bottom and a single on the top, so sleeping accommodation is quite flexible. North House is immaculate and beautifully finished. With fantastic use of space, merging the indoors and outdoors, guests enjoy a fabulous coastal adventure here. The playful spirit of the garden with its games rooms, exquisite lounge area and alfresco dining is very much part of this outstanding accommodation.
The kitchen diner of North House is a fantastic social space. It boasts a huge range of two tone, grey and white shaker-style cabinetry, outstanding appliances and a massive, modern dining table and chairs to seat everyone. Gorgeous armchairs are also scattered where guests can relax in comfort, keeping the chef company and enjoy wonderful views. A lovely rich parquet flooring runs throughout the ground floor. The very generous lounge is flooded with natural light and boasts sumptuous sofas, in delightful cool tones, where guests can chill and watch television or play some family board games.
The second floor master bedroom enjoys a vaulted ceiling and custom-made apex windows that accentuate the architecture brilliantly. Guests can enjoy sea views to wake up to. Also at the top of the house is a delightful twin with an additional bed. The remaining bedrooms, all very generous in size, are a bunk bed room, a king room with a king-size bed and a day bed plus an immaculate en-suite bathroom and another twin bedroom. The twins all have the beds next to each other. In total there are three exquisite bathrooms, all beautifully tiled and fitted. Two offer walk in showers and the family bathroom has a bath as well as a shower. North House stands apart with confidence and style throughout.
Outside, you will find two games rooms, one with table tennis and the other with a pool table. There are lots of outdoor bean bags plus an outstanding gazebo structure and outdoor lounging. Alfresco dining can be enjoyed using the barbecue. This wonderful holiday home is bound to leave you all with the widest of smiles and lovely memories!
Southwold lies between the pretty resort of Aldeburgh and the bustling town of Lowestoft. Southwold is famous for its pretty, pastel painted beach huts along the front, its iconic pier and its famous Adnams Brewery. Adnams offer brewery tours and tastings throughout the year. There are two beaches, the Pier Beach and Denes Beach which is quieter and more isolated. The sand and shingle beach is backed by dunes and offers clean, fresh water for canoeing, swimming and body boarding. Visitors enjoy various boat trips including the high-speed Coastal Voyage where you will enjoy seeing marsh harriers, herons, gulls and possibly osprey if you can open your eyes. From Southwold, you can walk to the charming village of Walberswick, crossing the River Blyth and exploring the trackbed of the old Southwold Railway. On the Walberswick side, crabbing is very popular from the harbour walls. Later you can return to Southwold on the little ferry. Over a thousand acres of heath and marshland around Walberswick are protected as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The quaint, welcoming Walberswick boasts tea rooms, restaurants, two pubs, an art gallery, village shops and wonderful craft and gift shops. Fresh fish can be bought from the harbour huts. Walberswick used to host the annual British Open Crabbing Championship, raising funds for good causes.
If you love nature, photography and the great outdoors, the PSPB Minsmere National Reserve is a wonderful day out. You will enjoy stunning coastal scenery as well as avocets, bearded tits, bitterns and many other birds. You can explore the nature walks where there are plenty of hides and also the woodlands.
Aldeburgh is enchanting. It’s famous resident, Benjamin Britten, the founder of the June Aldeburgh Festival, is celebrated thoughout the town. There is a wonderful sculpture on the beach. Aldeburgh is very attractive with pretty, pastel coloured 19th century homes lining the promenade, a wonderful pebble beach and fisherman’s huts selling the local daily catch.
If you are on holiday between July and Sepember, you may want to visit the Dunwich Heath Coastal Centre and Beach. It is quietly tucked away, offering tranquility and a true sense of being at one with nature. The heath is alive with colour during the summer months, a patchwork of pink and purple heather and coconut scented yellow gorse. It is a rare and precious habitat for dartford warblers, nightjars, woodlarks, adders and much more.
Eye Lodge I is one of two gorgeous small lodges situated in a two and a half acre wooded estate in the Suffolk countryside. With its own private garden, beautifully bordered by country woven fencing, Eye Lodge I is a blissful, tranquil retreat. With luxurious, contemporary furnishings and decor, it is an ideal base for a small family. If you want to visit with Grandparents or friends, we also feature the one bedroom Eye Lodge II. Guests are very welcome to roam freely through the private woodlands. This wonderful lodge is situated 7 miles from the pretty town of Framlington, close to Halesworth and within easy reach of the wonderful Suffolk Heritage Coast resorts of Southwold, Aldeburgh and Thorpeness.
The styling and decor of Eye Lodge I is contemporary, elegant and calm. Subtle hints of the seaside are sprinkled around the lodge and warm, oak flooring flows throughout. It is furnished to a very high standard, making it a very comfortable retreat. The kitchen diner is open plan and very smart. The kitchen makes self-catering a breeze. Double doors open to the wonderful living space with its comfy seating and wood burning stove. How lovely to snuggle up in front of the fire on a chilly evening! There are so many windows and floor to ceiling doors in this wonderful lodge, the space is very bright and airy.
Double doors open from the lodge to the very pretty garden with a delightful circular patio offering alfresco dining. If you have decided to rent Eye Lodge II as well, it is very easy to enjoy the gardens together.
Each of the rooms enjoys a gentle, home-from-home atmosphere. You will feel very much at ease and enjoy the charm. Hotel quality Egyptian cotton linens and luxury bath robes are provided to ensure you enjoy the sleep of kings. One of the bedrooms offers a kingsize bed and the other boasts twins that a placed next to each other. The bathroom is smart and immaculate with a walk-in double headed rain shower and sensor mirror.
You can wake up in the morning, enjoy your coffee and breakfast in the garden and decide on your plans for the day. Perhaps Bressingham, or Walberswick or perhaps the celebrated, much loved Southwold? There is so much choice from this peaceful location.
Eye Lodge I is situated on a gorgeous two and a half acre private estate in the Suffolk countryside. It is 7 miles form Framlington which boasts an ancient castle as well as excellent independent shops, cafes and restaurants. Framlington Castle is a wonderful place for a picnic. Entrance includes access to Lanman Trust’s Museum of local history as well. Displays illustrate the power struggles between monarchs and the Lords of Framlington over the ages and the tragic stories of famous family members Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard. The Mere, the castle’s outer courts and walls offer spectacular countryside views and some wonderful kite flying opportunities.
Halesworth is another of Suffolk’s very pretty market towns. It is less than 10 miles from the coast. Many of the town’s buildings date back to the sixteenth century. It is wonderful for an afternoon tea stop.
Bressingham is another popular spot. The Bressingham Steam Museum and Gardens boasts a collection of working locomotives that will take you around the magnificent gardens and woodland. A trip to the locomotive sheds brings the power of the mighty steam engineering up close. Bressingham has been the official home to the Dads Army Appreciation Society’s collection since 2000 so any of you Dads Army fans know where to head!
The quaint village of Aldeburgh is famous for its connection with the composer Benjamin Britten. It boasts a stunning ‘Scallop’ sculpture on the beach which is 4 metres high and is inscribed with the words ‘I hear those voices that will not be drowned’ from Britten’s famous opera Grimes. There is an annual Aldeburgh Festival which takes place in June and was originally founded by Benjamin Brittan. He was actually born in nearby Lowestoft but spent the last 30+ years of his live living in Aldeburgh. You can visit The Red House where he stayed for a glimpse of his life. Visitors can buy the freshest of catches at the fisherman’s huts on the beach for your alfresco supper or visit the numerous art galleries. The architecture of Aldeburgh is lovely. It is such a pretty place.
Just along the coast, Thorpeness is a magical, mystical village where you will find The Meare, an artificially created, Peter Pan themed boating lake. The landings and tiny islands have Peter Pan names such as ‘The Pirate’s Lair’ and ‘Wendy’s Island’. Visitors can hire rowing boats and enjoy family rowing on the water. Thorpeness Golf Club is regarded as one of Suffolk’s finest with 18 holes and par 70, just a stone’s throw from the beach.
There are few seaside towns quite so quintessentially British as Southwold. Instagram worthy, pastel painted beach huts line the promenade and the sandy beach is gorgeous. The iconic pier was refurbished and is lined with classy shops, eateries and amusements. Southwold is home to the famous Adnams Brewery with its brewing rooms set just behind the High Street, adjacent to the town’s iconic lighthouse which you can visit. You can cross the River Blyth to Walberswick, exploring the trackbed of the old Southwold Railway and returning on the little ferry if you want a change for the return. Over a thousand acres of heath and marshland around Walberswick are protected as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Walberswick offers tea rooms, restaurants, two pubs, an art gallery, village shops and some charming craft and gift shops. Fresh fish can be bought from the harbour huts and crabbing is very popular for children by the harbour. Walberswick used to host the annual British Open Crabbing Championship, raising funds for good causes.
Newlyn Cottage doesn’t just offer spectacular views of the bustling fishing village of Newlyn from its privileged hillside vantage point, it is an absolutely feast of stunning interior design. This four bedroom, luxury holiday home is ideally located to enjoy the delights of the splendid Lizard Peninsula. The vibrant town of Penzance is just along the road and in the other direction you can visit the iconic village of Mousehole and the breathtaking Lands End or you can head north to the foodie harbour front of St Ives. Newlyn Cottage sleeps eight guests in superb comfort and is also pet friendly.
This Cornish gem is flooded with light throughout and offers wonderful social spaces. The stylish kitchen diner features a top notch range cooker, beautiful kitchen units and a gorgeous granite-topped island with a breakfast bar where guests can keep the chefs company while they cook up a feast. A lovely stone feature is used for shelving and at the dining end, guests can enjoy the stone fireplace and wood burning stove. The dining table and chairs are sophisticated and very stylish. An ancient grandfather clock sits proudly next to the fireplace and double doors open to a gorgeous terrace for alfresco dining. The spectacular seascapes over the bay are sure to impress.
After a day enjoying this rugged coastline, guests can relax in the elegant living room. Sumptuous sofas and chairs in different colours are positioned perfectly so that you can enjoy the large, wall-mounted smart TV with Blu-ray player or nestle comfortably to enjoy one of the many books on the shelves. The styling of this room is fabulous and the artwork is mesmerising. There is also a second gorgeous living room, complete with a log burning stove, a perfect spot to enjoy the Sunday newspapers.
The bedrooms are an absolute delight, all with fabulous, bold colour schemes and luxurious furnishings. There are two super kings, one king and one twin bedroom, all enjoying sensational sea views. Two of the bedrooms boast exquisite en-suite bathrooms and the other two share a fabulous family bathroom. The master is lavish with an indulgent freestanding bath for relaxing evening soaks and incredible panoramic seascapes. You will find outstanding walk-in rain showers, his and hers sinks with a view and beautiful, ornate mirrors. The interior designers have certainly waved their magic on Newlyn Cottage!
Newlyn Cottage is a sensational holiday home, enjoying far reaching vistas of Mounts Bay and the Lizard Peninsula and decorated with flair and pizzazz. What an amazing spot at sunrise and sunset!
Newlyn Cottage enjoys a fabulous, hillside location overlooking the charming fishing village of Newlyn. It is home to one of the largest fishing fleets in the UK, with over 40 acres of harbour. All sorts of fishing vessels can be seen in the attractive harbour including beam trawlers, long liners, crabbers and small open boats used for hand-lining of mackerel in the bay. It is a sight to see! Newlyn has several galleries, some charming pubs and several cosy restaurants. The Newlyn Christmas lights are launched annually along with tunes from the Newlyn Male Voice Choir and followed by a traditional firework display. It is worth getting up early to experience the bustling fish market. The Newlyn Fish Festival is held each year on August Bank Holiday Monday when stalls and cafes take over the quays for the day.
The much loved fishing village of Mousehole boasts an even more famous Christmas light display and offers delightful original character, charm and beauty. The picturesque harbour is surrounded by narrow streets and yellow lichened houses, all huddled together. You will find pretty galleries, gift shops and restaurants along the harbour road. Make sure you take your camera!
Land’s End is famous for being the most south-westerly point in Britain. It is one of the most beautiful, naturally wild and unspoilt spots in Cornwall. The former smallholding is also known as the ‘First and Last’ due to its status as both the starting and ending point of the journey to or from John O’Groats in Scotland, the longest journey in the UK. It is definitely a must-visit with beautiful stretches of ancient coastline and awe-inspiring views. The first recorded name of Land’s End was ‘Penwith Steort’ dating back to 997. The iconic Land’s End signpost was established in the 1950’s when a local family-run business erected the now legendary Cornish icon.
Penzance is a major tourist and commercial centre in West Cornwall. The town is steeped in history with many monuments and historic sites. It boasts dramatic beaches and cliffs and offers much entertainment as well as hundreds of cafes and restaurants. On the moorland surrounding Penzance, there are numerous pre-historic Neolithic and Bronze Age tombs, monuments and settlements, some dating from over 5000 years ago.
Lark House is modern, immaculate and offers upside-down living to make the most of the fabulous architectural design and far-reaching views from the living room apex windows. With four luxurious bedrooms, Lark House sleeps eight guests and is ideal for families or groups of friends. It is tucked away in the sleepy seaside village of Abersoch on the glorious Llyn Peninsula.
As you arrive to your heavenly idyll, you can watch the electric gates part in front of you, knowing you are in for a secluded, peaceful break. A very smart, dazzling white and stone frontage greets you. Already you will see that the design gives a taster for what is inside.
The living spaces are on the first floor, offering a slice of contemporary Welsh glamour and sensational views of the majestic mountains and the gorgeous sea. You can sink into the velvet Chesterfields and breathe a sigh of utter contentment. If you throw open the balcony doors, you will breathe that fresh Welsh air. Light floods into through the apex windows and glass doors, illuminating this stylish, comfortable space. The two-tone kitchen is a chef’s dream with outstanding appliances and a handy breakfast bar where guests can keep the chef company. A very long, sophisticated dining table enjoys wonderful views with double doors opening to an exquisite balcony for alfresco dining and lounging. Perhaps you will try out every dining space during your stay! The balcony is certainly the perfect spot for pre-dinner drinks relaxing on the gorgeous cushioned rattan furniture. You can wave down to guests that have sneaked off to the private hot tub below. The living space boasts a huge 4k OLED television with Sky Q plus there is a wonderful Sonos sound system so that you can enjoy your favourite sounds whilst dining on the balcony. This really is contemporary holiday living at its best!
The four delightful bedrooms are located downstairs. Your furry friends can also join your holiday and have beds made up in the utility room! All of the bedrooms boast zip and link beds which are set up as super kings though can be laid out as twins. Two bedrooms enjoy dazzling ensuite bathrooms with walk-in rainfall showers and the other two share the family bathroom with its stylish bath and rainfall shower. Like the living space, the colour palettes are all calm and elegant. In the morning, you can throw open patio doors from the bedrooms and enjoy the fresh sea breeze, walking across the flagstones to your morning coffee spot. There is another luxury alfresco dining area with a deluxe barbecue, immaculate, manicured gardens and the fabulous hot tub. What utter bliss!
The stunning Llyn Peninsula boasts a rich culture and heritage, gorgeous harbours, stunning beaches and dramatic sea cliffs. It is a protected Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty where you can walk the Wales Coast Path and enjoy the sensational seascapes and landscapes.
Abersoch is delightful with cafes, restaurants, quirky shops and two fabulous beaches. The main beach offers wonderful watersports and excellent views towards St Tudwal’s Islands. The beach is flanked by some of the most expensive beach huts in Wales. The harbour beach is great for crabbing and watching the boats. One of the biggest attractions is the ‘micro-climate’ which is attributed to Abersoch’s location on the Llyn, surrounded by the sea on three sides.
To the west of Abersoch, at Y Rhiw, you will find Plas yn Rhiw, a 17th century Welsh manor house set in beautiful ornamental gardens with outstanding views of the bay. It is owned and run by the National Trust. As the road climbs, you will pass Porth Neigwl, otherwise known as Hell’s Mouth Beach which is highly rated as the best for surfing in North Wales.
Bardsey Island is also known as the ‘Isle of 20000 Saints’ . It is one of Wales’ natural wonders and was declared a National Nature Reserve in 1986 due to its amazing bird life. Legend has it that this remote island is home to 20,000 saints who are buried on the island. The stretch of water separating it from the mainland is known in Welsh as Ynys Enlli due to an abundance of rip tides and whirl pools which can make the crossing interesting. The wildlife on the island is extensive with many migrant species pulling over for a pit stop or to breed and nest. Migratory birds visiting include chiffchaffs, goldcrests, wheatears, sedge, willow warblers, whitethroats and spotted flycatchers. Resident species include ravens, little owls, oystercatchers, chough, razorbills, guillemots, fulmars and kittiwakes.
Llanbedrog boasts a photogenic line of colourful beach huts and a superb beach. Oriel Plas Glyn-y-Weddw is its wonderful arts centre and gallery. Porthdinllaen is a stunning coastal hamlet brimming with quaint houses above a stunning half moon of golden sand, another great photo opportunity. The village and beach are owned by the National Trust and access is by foot only. It boasts a lovely characterful waterfront pub. Beside Porthdinllaen you will find Nefyn with its maritime museum, pretty harbour and a sweeping crescent of sand. Its headland golf course is extremely scenic.
Llithfaen is a quaint inland village set in a fascinating landscape. On Yr Eifl mountains you will find Tre’r Ceiri, an astonishingly well-preserved prehistoric village which was occupied until about 2000 years ago. Nearby is the Welsh Language and Heritage Centre, Nant Gwrtheyrn.
As secluded romantic hideaways go, they don’t get much better than Worth Hideaway. Nestled amongst lush Kent countryside, on the doorstep of the picturesque village of Worth, Worth Hideaway is an idyllic, rural retreat. This pretty village boasts fine period houses, an historic church with Norman origins, two charming pubs and a delightful duck pond. Nearby, you can enjoy the historic town of Sandwich and a little further away, you can visit the former fishing, mining and garrison coastal town of Deal. The famous Royal St George’s Golf Club of Sandwich is due to host the 2021 Open Championship.
Worth Hideaway lives up to its dreamy name. It really is like a secret hideaway where you can enjoy absolute peace and quiet and a world of private spaces. As you stroll down the garden path, passing the pond and the inviting hammock, crossing the lawns with the two deckchairs waiting, you will realise that this holiday retreat offers something special. The barn is beautiful inside and out, your romantic holiday haven.
Beautiful doors open to your heavenly open plan living space. Nods to the past such as the beautifully restored beams add character and warmth to this luxurious pad. Light floods the space and the pale oak floor spreads throughout. A trendy, contemporary kitchen provides everything you need for a self-catering break and a quality deep leather sofa and a comfortable armchair sit in front of the cosy woodburner. Huge picture windows and doors look out to the lush lawns and woodlands. A local artist’s serene seascapes decorate the walls, adding to the sense of peace. You can dine in the intimate dining corner or alfresco on the patio as you watch the sun go down and listen to the birdsong.
Your dreamy bedroom offers a super king bed and luxury linens as well as gorgeous garden views. Your immaculate ensuite bathroom enjoys delightful Amtico flooring, a shower and a lovely bath where you can soak and count your blessings.
If you can bear to leave this little piece of paradise, you can venture beyond the lawns and pond to discover the charms of the village and the treats of medieval Sandwich.
The lovely village of Worth is set amidst orchards and fields in the gorgeous Kent countryside. It enjoys a central conservation area arranged around the village duck pond which formerly marked the end of a navigable creek. The village’s historic church, St Peter and St, Paul has Norman origins, unusual wooden shingles on the tower and a roof resembling an upturned boat. The two village pubs include the award winning St Crispin Inn and the playing field frequently hosts village cricket matches and events.
Sandwich offers much historical interest. It is one of the Cinque Ports though now the town is two miles from the sea. It still has many original medieval buildings. The Sandwich Guildhall Museum dates from Elizabethan times and boasts artefacts dating from the 13th century. Monk’s Wall Nature Reserve and a bird observatory can be found at Sandwich Bay. Close by, the White Mill Rural Heritage Centre, built in 1760, exhibits a fascination collection of farming and craft tools plus a complete wheelwright’s workshop and a blacksmith’s workshop and forge.
Deal is a charming town with splendid architecture, a wonderful shingle beach, an excellent range of independent shops, 2 weekly markets, 2 castles, a pier, 3 museums and some outstanding restaurants. Deal is a former fishing, mining and garrison town with history closely linked to the anchorage in the Downs. You can explore the lovely shops and cafes or take the coastal cycle path to Kingsdown via the historic Deal castle. Deal’s Maritime and Local History Museum portrays the fascinating changing history of Deal, Walmer and the surrounding area. There is an interesting collection of boats including the 1891 Saxon King. The Timeball Tower Museum also explores and explains the nautical history of Deal. The Kent Museum of Moving Image is a not-for-profit museum that explores the deep history of the moving image from the days of candlelit magic lantern performances and hand-painted slides through to the modern cinema.
Deal is very close to Walmer, a possible location for Julius Ceasar’s first arrival. You can explore more than eight acres of award-winning gardens in the grounds of the picturesque Walmer Castle. It was once a Tudor artillery fortress that became a stately home for the Lords Warden of the Cinque Ports, including the Iron Duke of Wellington. The formal and informal gardens are a delight with herbaceous borders, vivid colourful planting, an impressive cloud hedge, a kitchen garden, wild flower meadows, shaded woodland, a sunken glen and the glorious Queen Mother’s garden.
A romantic break in the gorgeous Suffolk countryside doesn’t get much better than one at Eye Lodge II. This splendid, contemporary lodge offers absolute peace and quiet with fabulous woodland and country views. It is sumptuous, modern living with carefully chosen touches that will delight. Eye Lodge II is situated in a two and a half acre private wooded which guests are welcome to enjoy. It also offers its own private garden with fabulous uninterruped views. You have the best of both worlds when staying at the lodge. You can explore miles of rolling Suffolk countryside sprinkled with quaint little villages or you can head to the dramatic and beautiful Suffolk Heritage Coast and enjoy the fabulous seaside towns and villages of Southwold, Walberswick, Aldeburgh and Thorpeness. Suffolk offers nature at its very best with many havens for wildlife that you can visit. The lodge is also close to the pretty, characterful towns of Framlington and Halesworth for shopping and excellent gourmet restaurants.
Serenity is a given at Eye Lodge II. Just think of cosy evenings in front of the wood burning stove, stretching out on the luxurious, plush sofas or dining alfresco to the sound of birdsong or watching the night stars. Or you could open a chilled bottle of fizz and take a glass while you laze in the gorgeous freestanding bath. Utter bliss!
Throughout Eye Lodge II, elegant light oak sets the tone. Stylish, quality oak floors flow beautifully throughout and the doors and countertops echo the style. In the living room, ruby red colour pops brighten the neutral tones making you feel warm and comfortable. The shaker-style kitchen will delight the chef and you can either dine inside in the open plan kitchen diner or outside under the charming arbour, on the intimate patio for two.
In your bedroom, you will be met with yet more elegance and hotel quality linens adorning your king-size bed. The deepest of sleeps is very likely in such luxury. Your bathroom offers a very spacious shower as well as your deep, roomy bath. You will want to linger for sure.
Eye Lodge II is a tranquil, private retreat, so idyllic for that special break away. Should you want to share this rural retreat, Oliver’s Travels does feature Eye Lodge I which offers two bedrooms.
Eye Lodge II is situated on a gorgeous two and a half acre private estate in the Suffolk countryside. It is 7 miles form Framlington which boasts an ancient castle as well as excellent independent shops, cafes and restaurants. Framlington Castle is a wonderful place for a picnic. Entrance includes access to Lanman Trust’s Museum of local history as well. Displays illustrate the power struggles between monarchs and the Lords of Framlington over the ages and the tragic stories of famous family members Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard. The Mere, the castle’s outer courts and walls offer spectacular countryside views and some wonderful kite flying opportunities.
Halesworth is another of Suffolk’s very pretty market towns. It is less than 10 miles from the coast. Many of the town’s buildings date back to the sixteenth century. It is wonderful for an afternoon tea stop.
Bressingham is another popular spot. The Bressingham Steam Museum and Gardens boasts a collection of working locomotives that will take you around the magnificent gardens and woodland. A trip to the locomotive sheds brings the power of the mighty steam engineering up close. Bressingham has been the official home to the Dads Army Appreciation Society’s collection since 2000 so any of you Dads Army fans know where to head!
The quaint village of Aldeburgh is famous for its connection with the composer Benjamin Britten. It boasts a stunning ‘Scallop’ sculpture on the beach which is 4 metres high and is inscribed with the words ‘I hear those voices that will not be drowned’ from Britten’s famous opera Grimes. There is an annual Aldeburgh Festival which takes place in June and was originally founded by Benjamin Brittan. He was actually born in nearby Lowestoft but spent the last 30+ years of his live living in Aldeburgh. You can visit The Red House where he stayed for a glimpse of his life. Visitors can buy the freshest of catches at the fisherman’s huts on the beach for your alfresco supper or visit the numerous art galleries. The architecture of Aldeburgh is lovely. It is such a pretty place.
Just along the coast, Thorpeness is a magical, mystical village where you will find The Meare, an artificially created, Peter Pan themed boating lake. The landings and tiny islands have Peter Pan names such as ‘The Pirate’s Lair’ and ‘Wendy’s Island’. Visitors can hire rowing boats and enjoy family rowing on the water. Thorpeness Golf Club is regarded as one of Suffolk’s finest with 18 holes and par 70, just a stone’s throw from the beach.
There are few seaside towns quite so quintessentially British as Southwold. Instagram worthy, pastel painted beach huts line the promenade and the sandy beach is gorgeous. The iconic pier was refurbished and is lined with classy shops, eateries and amusements. Southwold is home to the famous Adnams Brewery with its brewing rooms set just behind the High Street, adjacent to the town’s iconic lighthouse which you can visit. You can cross the River Blyth to Walberswick, exploring the trackbed of the old Southwold Railway and returning on the little ferry if you want a change for the return. Over a thousand acres of heath and marshland around Walberswick are protected as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Walberswick offers tea rooms, restaurants, two pubs, an art gallery, village shops and some charming craft and gift shops. Fresh fish can be bought from the harbour huts and crabbing is very popular for children by the harbour. Walberswick used to host the annual British Open Crabbing Championship, raising funds for good causes.
If you are planning a week in the Suffolk countryside, this wonderful conversion is idyllic, luxurious and is nestled within rolling meadows on the doorstep of the pretty village of Preston St Mary, just a mile from the celebrated medieval town of Lavenham. Lavenham is considered to be Britain’s best preserved medieval village and one of Suffolk’s most important wool towns. At every turn, you will encounter medieval charm with characterful timber framed buildings lining the narrow streets and lanes. Lavenham has also gained a ‘foodie’ reputation with excellent restaurants and pubs. Preston St Mary’s village pub, the Six Bells offers Grade II listed charm and delicious gourmet food and local ales. What a lovely spot!
With two enormous bedrooms, Preston Dairy sleeps 4 guests in supreme comfort. This countryside retreat is a traditional Suffolk wood-slatted building that has been lovingly restored to create a spacious, modern holiday home. Cool, calm colour palettes together with enormous doors and windows combine to make bright and airy spaces. The characterful original beams throughout Preston Dairy offer a warm and inviting ambience. The ground floor is open plan in design and oozes serenity with its white, cream and soft grey tones. The shaker style kitchen is smart and modern. It enjoys excellent appliances for your self-catering break as well as a handy breakfast bar. The country style dining table is very attractive and the living space enjoys lovely views of the meadows beyond the giant French windows. Outside, on your private patio, you can enjoy alfresco dining along with the scent of lavender and the sound of birdsong.
Upstairs you will be impressed with the generous bedrooms, both offering kingsize beds, lovely wooden floors and stylish en-suite bathrooms. The master boasts huge French doors to a Juliette balcony which looks over towards Lavenham. Both bedrooms feature gorgeous beams and angled ceilings, adding warmth and character. One bathroom enjoys a bath and shower as well as stunning turquoise metro tiles and the other offers a shower. Downstairs you will find an additional, very spacious wet room.
Preston Dairy is fully accessible. A handy lift connects both floors providing easy access to the bedrooms and en-suite bathrooms. You will certainly feel away from it all in this dreamy, natural setting.
Preston St Mary is a tranquil, pretty Suffolk village. The Grade II village pub is locally owned and run so very friendly. You will find the artwork of local artists on the walls and local produce on the plates. The pub enjoys a beautiful west facing garden, an ideal place for a drink and to watch the sun set after a long country walk.
Just down the road, Lavenham is an absolute delight. It offers a rich history and is absolutely gorgeous. In Tudor England, Lavenham was the 14th richest town thanks to its famous Lavenham Blue broadcloth. There are over 300 buildings listed as being of architectural and historic interest, including the beautiful Church of St Peter and St Paul, Little Hall, The Guildhall and De Vere House. The celebrated Guildhall is a spectacular timber-framed building built around 1530 by the religious Guild of Corpus Christi. The renovated Guildhall is located in the historic market place and today tells the stories of Lavenham’s fortunes. Little Hall, built in the 1390’s was once home to the Causton family and is now a museum owned by the Suffolk Buildings Preservation Trust. St Peter and St Paul Church was built at the height of Lavenham’s prosperity by Thomas Spring III in the late 15th century. The Old Grammar School is another amazing building. It was open from 1647-1887 and is a Grade I listed building whose many pupils included the famous painter John Constable. De Vere House is also know as the De Vere Hunting Lodge, the last house in Lavenham to be owned by the Earls of Oxford. Lavenham boasts a wonderful array of art galleries including the Crooked House Gallery, a building full of wonky charm. There are many charming cafes and restaurants. Lavenham is very proud of its strong links to America. The Lavenham airbase was home to the 487th Bombardment Group of the 8th US Army Air Force who flew 185 missions and more than 6000 sorties during WWII. There are some delightful walks in and around Lavenham. One is the Lavenham Woodland walk, part of the Old Lavenham to Long Melford Great Eastern Railway line. Not only is is beautiful, there are 24 varieties of butterflies that have been seen in the area.
Guests staying at Preston Dairy also enjoy trips to Bury St Edmunds, the home of Saint Edmund, the original patron Saint of England. The town offers award-winning restaurants, excellent shopping, beautiful parks, historic buildings and many annual festivals. The magnificent St Edmundsbury Cathedral stands in the stunning Abbey Gardens among the ruins of the Abbey of St Edmund.
It is also easy to visit the dramatic and beautiful Suffolk Heritage Coast and the wonderful, popular seaside resorts of Aldeburgh, Thorpeness and Southwold.
Located in the quaint coastal village of Staithes, just a bit north of Whitby, you will feel the tingle of history at the characterful Staithes Cottage. This ancient gem has been beautifully and imaginatively renovated to provide quirky, luxurious accommodation. You can easily imagine the fishermen of the past and how they would have lived in this cottage. Throughout you will find wonderful style and flair with little nods to the past such as the rope going up the stairs.
Staithes is a gorgeous Yorkshire gem, clinging to the hillside with winding cobbled streets brimming with charming 18th century cottages. It is a wonderful base for exploring Yorkshire’s cliff top paths and discovering the delights of rock pooling and fossil hunting on the small sandy beach. What a wonderful getaway for those interested in art, geology, hiking and exploring the outdoors.
Staithes Cottage offers quirky upside down living, making the most of the beautiful views from the upper floor. The refurbishment is fabulous. Think assured chic, think Farrow and Ball colours, think beautiful upcycled ancient furniture, think rich reclaimed wooden floorboards with a history and you start to get the picture. You will discover clever lighting throughout with large traditional sashes and glass sealed light shafts illuminating the beautiful spaces.
You enter this lovely cottage to the stunning kitchen diner. A fabulous array of bespoke, full-height, glass fronted cupboards impresses to one side and the main kitchen is to the rear. The chef will enjoy the gorgeous styling of this bespoke kitchen, including its cosy underfloor heating and Sonos sound system. You can draw up a chair to the polished antique dining table and settle with a cup of traditional Yorkshire tea or something stronger while the chef in your group prepares a feast.
The upper, bright and airy, contemporary living room with huge windows at one end and floor-to-ceiling sliding doors at the other is an absolute delight. With a gorgeous log burning stove for chilly evenings, comfy sofas, Sonos sound system, smart television and a Blu-ray DVD player, it is a wonderful place to relax. You can step out to a fabulous decked patio with alfresco dining, stunning sea views and beautiful, colourful planting all around. What a wonderful spot to watch the sun go down and enjoy a glass of wine!
There are two dreamy bedrooms with sumptuous beds adorned with quality linens. In vintage modern style, one comes with a feature wallpapered wall and both are in cool, elegant tones. The innovative light shafts are equipped with remote controlled intelligent glass for night time. The bathroom is luxurious with a lovely roll top bath to sink into. Now where is that glass of champagne...
Staithes Cottage is interesting, quirky, brilliantly designed and even your dog is well catered for with a hot and cold running dog shower to wash off the sand!
Staithes is a very special village, full of charm, winding cobbled streets, 18th century cottages and characterful pubs. This fabulous coastal village was once one the largest fishing ports in the North East. It offers a unique, undeniable charm with his huddled cottages clinging to the hillside enjoying fabulous views of the stunning shoreline. From Staithes you can explore the rugged Yorkshire coastline, enjoying the dramatic clifftop views from the popular coastal trails. You can meander the Cleveland Way as it passes through the village and head towards Skinningrove where you will discover the remnants of the alum mines which once made the village famous. At the Staithes Lifeboat House you can learn about the village’s incredible fishing heritage and the heroic tales of the local lifeboat crew. The village also has a long history of well-known artists, including a group known as the ‘Staithes Group’ or the ‘Northern Impressionists’. You will see some incredible contemporary artworks at the Staithes Gallery. The brightly coloured fishing boats, known as the Whitby Cobles, are used by local fisherment to catch cod, lobsters and crabs plus there are some pleasure cruisers. There are wonderful fossils and rock pools to explore on the beach. It is no wonder that this stretch of coastline is known as the Dinosaur Coast. Staithes hosts an annual festival in September when the local galleries, cottages and public buildings open their doors to artists showcasing their work. There are pop-up galleries and tea rooms all around the village. It is a great time to visit.
Just south of Staithes is the unique, historic town of Whitby. It is definitely a town that offers something more than your typical coastal seaside resort. Whitby is famous for its connections to Bram Stoker’s Dracula and Captain Cook. It boasts a Gothic culture with quirky narrow cobbled streets, independent shops and the majestic ruins of Whitby Abbey overlooking the town from East Cliff. There is a monument to Captain James Cook on West Cliff where he is looking out to sea. There are plenty of excellent restaurants throughout the town including the famous Magpie Cafe. It offers many seafood dishes as well as its famous fish and chips. Close to the harbour you will find plenty of traditional seaside fun with amusement arcades and cafes. Heading back towards Staithes, you will find the lovely sandy beaches of Sandsend and Runswick Bay. Sandsend was originally two villages, Sandsend and East Row.
Six miles south of Whitby is the picturesque old fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay. It is beautiful with a sandy beach, rock pools, ancient fossils, narrow twisting cobbled streets and alleyways. It is quite easy to get lost in the little warren of lanes lined with old fisherman’s cottages. Most have now been renovated. The village is buzzy with a good range of cafes, pubs and restaurants as well as charming, unique shops.
Two couples or a small family will be in heaven at this gorgeous rural retreat. It is surrounded by glorious, unspoilt Suffolk countryside, all waiting to be explored. The delightful Barrow Barn is a former cart lodge which has been transformed with brilliant design and style into a very comfortable, luxurious holiday home. Set in 15 acres of private woodland, you could not hope for somewhere more beautiful and tranquil. The delightful Suffolk village of Barrow is on the doorstep with its two pubs. The Weeping Willow pub is absolutely fantastic with roaring log fires and upmarket indoor and outdoor seating. The food is delicious. Barrow is eight miles west of the cathedral town of Bury St Edmunds.
Guests will totally relax in this wonderful rural location. The renovations are seriously impressive with quirky upside down living to enjoy the fabulous countryside views. The open plan living area enjoys its characterful pitched roof and painted beams. With huge French doors opening to a gorgeous balcony and numerous velux windows, the living space is bright and airy. A cosy wood burning stove is perfect for chilly evenings and atmosphere. It rests against a feature panelled wall with blue accents. The modern kitchen offers shaker style cabinetry and outstanding appliances, perfect for a self-catering break. A delightful shelf arrangement matches the blue tones of the feature fire wall.
One of the two exceptional bedroom suites is also located on the first floor. In wonderful country style, it boasts a king-size bed, a beautifully tiled bathroom with a deep bath as well as a shower and a lovely furnished balcony where you can enjoy the panoramic views. The second bedroom, on the ground floor, is also a delight with a king-size bed and a gorgeous en-suite shower room. The trendy metro tiles are in a gorgeous sage green shade.
You may be tempted to stay put in this rural idyll though The Weeping Willow will surely tempt you with its delicious food and Bury St Edmunds has many treats in store for you. You never know, may even get to watch some horseracing at Newmarket!
Barrow is a very pretty village and boasts the gastropub, The Weeping Willow. The meaning of the village name is grove, wood or hill, which is exactly right. A circular walk around the village is known as ‘walking around Crattle’, named after its main feature, Crattle Hill. The small hamlet of Burthorpe Green is attached to Barrow.
Bury St Edmunds is a very attractive cathedral town, surrounded by countryside and with 1000 years of history to explore. It offers award-winning restaurants, wonderful shopping, beautiful parks, the magnificent St Edmundsbury Cathedral and a delightful theatre. There are many festivals and events. The Christmas market is particularly popular. The cathedral originates from the 11th century and was rebuilt in the 12th and 16th centuries as a parish church. It became a cathedral in 1914. The Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds was built in 1819. A Grade I listed playhouse, it is the only surviving example of a Regency theatre in the UK. It has been fully restored and provides visitors with a unique theatrical experience. The Abbey Gardens are situated on the site of a former Benedictine Abbey and once a powerhouse of medieval England. With 14 acres of rolling hills, sculptured flower beds and historical ruins, it is a lovely spot. There is also a children’s play area, mini golf, an aviary and a sensory garden. Visitors enjoy Walk, Talk and Tasting Tours at Greene King Brewery. Based in ancient buildings, visitors can find out how the local beers are made and taste them and a delicious beer-based condiment range of chutneys, mustards and marmalades.
Barrow Barn is situated between Bury St Edmunds and Newmarket. Newmarket is generally considered to be the birthplace and global centre of thoroughbred horse racing. It is the largest racehorse training centre in Britain, the largest racehorse breeding centre in the country and home to most major British horseracing institutions. There are two Classic races and three British Champions Series held each year. There are over fifty horse training stables, two large racetracks, the Rowley Mile and the July Course. The National Horse Racing Museum is an interesting visit. It tells the story of horse racing from its royal origins to Lester Piggot, Frankie Dettori and other current stars.
The Thetford Forest offers 18,730 hectares to explore, a patchwork of pines, heathland and broadleaves. It is a welcome refuge for a rich variety of animal and plant life. Attractions in the forest include High Lidge with its exciting high ropes adventures, Mildenhall Warren and Lynford Arboretum.
Brecon Cottage holds an excellent location on the very outskirts of the beautiful Brecon Beacons National Park, making it a fabulous choice for keen walkers or those simply wanting to enjoy the great outdoors. While guests will enjoy a tranquil escape, the market town of Brecon, where a variety of helpful amenities can be found, is less than a ten-minute drive away.
The cottage is ideal for small families, comfortably accommodating up to four guests across two well-appointed bedrooms. On the ground floor is the main living space which comprises of a cosy lounge complete with feature fireplace and a fully-equipped kitchen and dining area. Also on this level is the first of the bedrooms, a double and a shower room. Upstairs, on the first floor is a king-size double bedroom which boasts an en-suite bathroom. On request, this bedroom can be converted into a twin room with two small singles, ideal for children to share.
Outside, the cottage boasts a pretty enclosed garden, the perfect setting for your morning cup of coffee!
Brecon Cottage is situated less than 10-minutes from the market town of Brecon, where a huge variety of amenities, including shops and restaurants, can be found. The cottage is located on the very edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park, known for its big green open spaces which offer miles and miles of wonderful walking.
The area is geographically diverse, offering the chance to explore caves and castles, waterfalls and woodlands, as well as some pretty towns and villages along the way. Market towns like Abergavenny, Talgarth, and Hay-on-Wye, are pleasant places to stop off – after all, you wouldn’t want to miss out on the excellent restaurants and charming pubs, of which this eclectic part of the country has no shortage.
