Leiston

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Library of Books

Board Games

Sound System

Entertainment

Bathtub

Hair Dryer

Bathroom

Dishwasher

Microwave

Pod Coffee Machine

Freezer

Fridge

Kitchen

Oven

Stove

Kitchen Utensils

Toaster

High Chair

Cooking Essentials

Kettle

Kitchen & Dining

Iron

Washing Machine

Dryer

Ironing Board

Black-Out Blinds

Hangers

Cleaning Products

Drying Rack

Extra Pillows and Blankets

Bedroom & Laundry

Bicycles

Wellness & Fitness

Wi-fi

Desk / Workplace

Internet & Office

Fireplace

Central Heating

Underfloor Heating

Heating & Cooling

Parking Available

Private Parking

Free Parking

Private Entrance

Self Check-in / Check-out

Free Parking On Premises

Parking & Access

Herb Garden

Barbeque

Garden

Balcony

Outdoor Seating

Outdoor

Pets Allowed

Pets

Carbon Monoxide Detector

Fire Extinguisher

First Aid Kit

Smoke Detector

Other

With farmland to the front and the owner’s beautiful private nature reserve behind – this gorgeous home, part of a cluster of mill buildings, is in an idyllic spot. 

Take a stroll through winding footpaths of the reserve that meander through meadows and forests of giant cedars and ancient oaks. In spring, you’ll see enchanting carpets of bluebells, primroses and daffodils, but whatever time of year you come, you’ll be treated to an array of wildlife, from chaffinches to woodpeckers. There are maps to find the footpaths going onwards to Snape Maltings, just over two miles away, and to the sea at Aldeburgh (or it’s seven minutes in the car). You can borrow some bikes too if you prefer to cycle.

You don’t have to go anywhere to get some fresh air, though. There’s a lovely old cobbled, sunny courtyard where clematis and wisteria clamber up the walls – it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the welcome hamper of breakfast goodies. There’s another patio area, too, with fragrant rambling roses – ideal for a glass of wine.

The home itself is a sympathetic conversion of a stable and grain store. We adore the character features inside, such as the traditional 17th Century Suffolk white brick flooring, wood-panelled walls and old oak floorboards. Part of the original manger has been incorporated into the wall dividing the kitchen and the living space area – a lovely touch. Open the stable doors here and listen to the blackbirds singing at dusk. Furnished with antiques, this cottage will appeal to couples and pet owners looking for a luxurious country bolthole.


Blackbirds Singing At Dusk

Throws

Nice to haves

We can see why this cottage was in The Sunday Times' Coolest 100 Cottages' list – it's a Jacobean dream, full of original character and quirky features. Once home to the miller of Plomesgate Mill, it now houses wonderful antiques, such as a fantastic 1700s Breton bed built straight into the wall, a gorgeous oak four-poster and a working 1800s kitchen range. 

Enjoy a tasty full English breakfast (courtesy of the welcome hamper provided by your lovely hosts Beverley and Martin) in the farmhouse style kitchen. Or when the Suffolk sun is shining, dine in the pretty, wisteria clad courtyard. If you’re lucky enough to be here in August and September, there's a mulberry bush in the grounds that guests are welcome to pick fruit from – perfect for making some jam or muffins.

Something else we adore here is the owner’s beautiful private nature reserve behind this home. Take the dogs for a walk through the meandering footpaths that wind through meadows and ancient woodland. In spring, you’ll see captivating carpets of cheerful daffodils, bluebells and primroses. Whatever time of year you come, though, you’ll be treated to an array of wildlife, from nuthatches to woodpeckers.
 
There are maps to find the footpaths going onwards to Snape Maltings, an arts complex on the banks of the River Alde, just over two miles away. Or head to Aldeburgh (seven minutes in the car) – you can borrow some bikes and cycle there in around thirty minutes too.



Jacobean Gem

Coffee Maker

Step back in time at this meticulously restored Regency cottage. Your hosts have poured their time and energy into sourcing period-specific reclaimed materials and equipping the home with antique furnishings to create a cosy and charming English escape that offers the very best of coast and country.

All that effort has clearly paid off, as evidenced by the beautiful interior. From the Victorian roll-top bath to the eighteenth-century range and the wainscotting on the walls – every effort has been made to make it feel as authentic as possible. Even the mod cons, such as the TV, are hidden away inside bread ovens that are built into the chimney so as not to shatter the illusion.

At the top of the narrow staircase is the twin bedroom, through which you enter the main bedroom – a pretty common arrangement for houses of this period.

Step outside, and you'll find a beautifully maintained nature reserve right on your doorstep. Your hosts bought it in 2015 and have spent the intervening years slowly restoring and exposing its beauty, with winding footpaths leading to conveniently placed benches, soaring Scots pine trees and ancient oaks – perfect for a reflective moment in nature or a ride on the supplied bikes.

For adventures further afield, you'll find maps detailing footpaths that run to the world-class concert hall at Snape Maltings, two-and-a-half miles away, and continue through forests and past lakes, leading all the way to the sea at Aldeburgh. 

The Miller's Cottage

Amazon Prime

Netflix

Rain Shower

Luxury Toiletries

Toiletries

Cafetiere

Laptop Friendly Workspace

Free Parking On Street

Balcony / Patio

Access to Beach

Welcome Hamper

Umbrellas

Resort Access

This Georgian cottage brings all the genteel charm to match its picturesque Suffolk setting. Nestled in the seaside town of Southwold, you’re just moments from its sandy beach and bustling high street. Dating back to 1740, exposed timbers, cast iron fireplaces, and an original winder staircase show the bones of its past. Whilst chic all-white interiors, clean uncluttered spaces, and beautifully modernised bathrooms keep things fresh and current. A home to enjoy whatever the season – there’s a cosy lounge and open fire for winter months, and a pretty and secluded courtyard garden complete with a barbecue for making the most of sunnier days. With everything on your doorstep, you’ll find there’s no need for a car. Grab your bucket and shades and take a stroll down to Southwold Beach with its beach-lined promenade and pier, all just five minutes on foot – stopping off at the local bakery for picnic supplies first. And when tummies start to rumble, there’s fish and chips aplenty and many a local pub all within walking distance on the high street. With sands, sea and glorious surroundings, this is the British seaside at its best.

Postcard From Southwold

DVD Library

DVD Player

Espresso Machine

Luxury Bedding

Multiple Sets of Keys

Safe

Tucked away in Rendlesham Forest, this quintessentially English cottage is as dreamily secluded as it is beautifully striking. The brick-and-stone facade contrasts with the modern extension. Lofty windows capture sweeping green views of woodland and rolling fields, and fill the home with glorious light. These views are best seen from the master bedroom where you'll find high ceilings, decorative beams, and a modern country aesthetic. This home has a farmhouse feel - window sills and kitchen cupboards are painted a cool sage green and you'll find a wood-burning stove in the sitting room. Cooking in the stunning rustic kitchen is easy with its modern amenities, and the exposed brickwork, colourful rugs and elegant dining space make for an idyllic socialising spot. Nature is so easy to access here as the back gate opens directly onto the forest. You can walk for miles or take the 15-minute drive to the beach at Shingle Street for a day at the seaside. This one's definitely a keeper.

The Keeper's Cottage

Satellite / Cable TV

The picturesque village of Southwold sits on The Suffolk Coast and Heaths, one of only forty-six regions in the country officially labelled an ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’. We think the best way to discover this exceptionally beautiful landscape, is to stay in an exceptionally beautiful home. On a street of candy-colored cottages, an eight-minute walk from Southwold Pier, your home is painted in a dreamy pale blue, with terracotta roof tiles, and a cute white door beckoning you inside. Built in 1850, you’ll love the original features like exposed wooden beams, a winding staircase, and wood-burning fireplace in the lounge. We think this is the perfect spot to settle down on the sofa, crack open a bottle of fizz, and say cheers to the start of your holiday. Another option would be sipping champagne in the luxurious freestanding tub, or taking celebrations out to your private patio on a sunny afternoon. When you get peckish, take a wander to your nearest chippie, three minutes away. Protect your portion of fish and chips from the seagulls as you stroll one minute down to the promenade and take in the fresh air from the North Sea.

Pale Blue Gull

Smart TV

Private Washing Machine

Cot / Crib

Parking On Premises

Single-Level Home

Created by an award-winning visual artist, these converted grain silos caught our eye for a number of reasons. There’s the industrial exterior which made us question how cosy it would be, but once inside it’s everything you’d expect from a charming rural retreat. You can admire beautiful views across the Suffolk countryside or be inspired by the artwork whilst sitting by the log-burning fire. Outside, you’ll find a little table and barbecue, plus there’s a wonderful sense of privacy and seclusion here. It’s also just a short drive from the pretty market town of Framlingham, with plenty of walking trails within easy reach.

Artist’s Residency 

Piano

This pretty 16th Century cottage is full of character and light. Relax on the large enclosed courtyard with its beautiful blossom tree and flower baskets – it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of rosé wine. At night the tree is lit up with twinkling lights giving the space a magical feel.

If it gets a bit chilly, head inside and sit next to the large inglenook fireplace with its cosy wood-burning stove. We love this room with its historic beams and antiques. If you don’t fancy eating out, rustle up a dinner using some local fresh seafood from the fisherman’s huts at Aldeburgh, a twenty-minute drive away.

Closer to home, the centre of Wickham Market is 50 yards away, where you’ll find a range of shops including a butchers, antique store and beauty salon, as well as an arts centre. There are a couple of restaurants here as well as a fish n’ chips shop, while there are many pubs nearby, including one in the village of Ufford, a one to two-hour walk from the cottage (or a four-minute drive). Your lovely hosts provide bikes for free, too, if you want to explore the area on two wheels.


Chaffinch Cottage

Baby Bath

Child Friendly

Part of an address that has been mentioned in historical records dating back to the thirteenth century, this recently converted apartment is a lovely spot from which to enjoy one of England's most beautiful coastal regions. Underneath wooden ceiling beams, the open living room is home to a cosy wood burner and a pristine white corner kitchen. This is, however, a part of the country where you'll want to spend as much time outside as possible and there are plenty of opportunities to do so here. As well as a patio with seating and a barbecue, there's also a private tennis court nearby that guests are free to make the most of. It's also possible to hire a bike from the host and Sudbourne Woods Bike Park only take two minutes of pedalling to reach. For those more comfortable on their feet, Orford Ness National Nature Reserve can be reached in eight minutes in the car.

A Scurry of Squirrels

Tennis Court

Deep within the Suffolk countryside close to England's east coastline lies this pair of conjoined cottages. Each has its own living room, kitchen and private patio, which give visiting parties that little bit of added flexibility. The interior design is similar in both, with a pleasing mix of the old and new — we're talking wooden ceiling beams next to sleek white kitchens and pristine bathrooms. If you're here during the winter months, there's a wood-burner in each house, but if the sunshine makes an appearance, there's a private tennis court on the premises that guests are welcome to use. Further afield, Captain's Wood nature reserve can be reached in half an hour on foot — or three minutes in the car — while Aldeburgh Beach is seventeen minutes' drive away.

A Parliament of Owls

Nestled away in the Suffolk countryside, this apartment lies on an address that has been mentioned in historical records dating back to the fourteenth century. However, it's far from rustic inside. Wooden floors, a sleek white kitchen and pristine bathrooms with brick-style tiling make for a contemporary interior. During the colder months of the year, there's nothing better to do than curl up next to the log-burner in the living room, but when the weather is more agreeable, there's so much to do. Just outside, there's a private patio with a barbecue and seating ready for an alfresco feast. Elsewhere on the grounds, there's a tennis court shared only between a couple of cottages, as well as lots of wildlife to spot, from Muscovy ducks and moorhens to deer and pigs. In the local area, guests have the option of birdwatching at Orford Ness, cycling through the Sudbourne Woods Bike Park or swimming in the sea at Aldeburgh Beach.

A Flock of Ducks

Home Cinema Setup

Swimming Pool

Private Pool

Breakfast Included

This majestic house is surrounded by an immaculate garden and private woodland. With its stately grandeur and Georgian architecture, it's a true one-off. Inside, opulent furnishings nod to the history of this estate and provide luxurious comfort. There's even a house manager and team on hand to prepare the home to suit your occasion. The surrounding coastline and local countryside provide ample opportunity for beautiful scenic walks and outdoor pursuits. 

Sense & Sensibility

Streaming Services

Rooftop Terrace

Escape for some fresh coastal air and bring your friends or family members along with you. It's a spacious and stylish apartment with plenty of seating, pops of colour and tasteful decor. Ideal for a small group, this contemporary home offers comfortable bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, a sleek kitchen and a chic dining area – we especially love the Eames-style chairs and funky artwork. While this is a modern build, and a well-presented one at that, there's a warmth here with the vibrant scatter cushions, comfy throws and green houseplants that makes it feel like home right away. The real highlight of the apartment is outside space – complete with garden furniture, a barbecue and a tall wooden fence for added privacy – sitting out on the patio with a glass of chilled wine is a dreamy way to bookmark any day if you ask us. Perfectly placed, walk to sandy Great Yarmouth Beach in less than twelve minutes and be at Nelson's Monument and the lively town centre in under half an hour. We'd especially recommend a trip to the Merrivale Model Village if you're after a fun family day out – as with most of the popular attractions, it's well within reach here. 

Town Is By The Sea

Games Room

EV Charger

Patio / Terrace

Surrounded by over 500 acres of woodland, lakes and ponds, this Grade II-listed farmhouse makes a big impression. Rooms are spacious and comfortably modern, though taller guests might want to watch their heads on some of the sloping ceilings. The manicured garden stretches around the outdoor seating, making it easy for parents to supervise kids playing on the lawn whilst they enjoy a sunset drink. There's also a tennis court, gym, squash court, play set, and table tennis to keep everyone busy, but the lake is our favourite. With a jetty and small rowing boat, you can get out on the water whenever you need a peaceful moment. 

Suffolk's Delight

Blu Ray Player

Foosball / Table Football

Ping Pong Table

Pool / Snooker Table

Sonos

Bathrobes

Heated Towel Rail

Blender

Children's Dinnerware

Juicer

Wine Cooler

Laundry Supplies

Vacuum Cleaner

Heated Pool

Outdoor Pool

Sauna

Early / Late Check-Out Available

Beach / Pool Towels

Fenced Garden

Fenced Pool

Garden Games

Sun Loungers / Beach Chairs

Sun Umbrellas

Pet Basket

Pet Bowls

Set within over 100 acres of grounds, this handsome Georgian house is surrounded by manicured gardens, woodland walks and activities like clay pigeon shooting and archery. The home’s private garden features a heated swimming pool for sunny days and you can still sit and listen to the birdsong in the huge conservatory if the weather turns. Or, head inside to the games room for a round of pool or foosball by the wood-burning stove. The kitchen, with its gas range cooker and oodles of prep space, is more than big enough for the bustle of family breakfast time, and the old servant’s bells are still on display. Tucked into a corner of the kitchen you'll find a little TV snug, warmed by the purr of an Aga. Gather the group in the dining room with its view across the fields outside, or head up to the privacy of beautiful bedrooms, each decorated with its own motif – paisley and peacocks perhaps, or a princess-style four-poster and freestanding tub. If you don’t feel like cooking, the estate staff can arrange for a private chef, or you can make the short walk to the Brisley Bell which serves excellent food.  

Peacocks & Petticoats

Hot Tub

If you're after a home that's got space for you and your beloved pooch(es), we've found one that's just 'paw-fect' (we can't promise that won't be the last dog pun). A gorgeous barn conversion close to the wind-whipped Norfolk coast, this home has been set up with dog lovers in mind. There's enough space for up to four of your furry friends to join, with a lavish fleece-lined bed for each, throws for those that just won't stay off the sofa, an enclosed garden and a special dog hamper to welcome them. Two-legged guests will love the open-plan living and dining area, the AGA in the kitchen, comfy sofas and plenty of games. You'll definitely want to keep the dogs out of the bedrooms, though, as the Egyptian cotton bedding is far too sumptuous to share. Nearby there are lots of dog-friendly woodland and beach walks, and local pub The Star Inn will be happy to welcome you and your tail-wagging companions. After a day out exploring the best of the north Norfolk coast, treat yourself to a soak in the hot tub looking out over the surrounding fields. If you want to explore further afield, head twenty miles north to Cromer, known as 'the gem of the Norfolk coast'. We think it makes for the 'ulti-mutt' escape.

It's A Dog's Life

Projector

Baby Changing Mat

Fenced Property

Outdoor Fireplace / Firepit

Just outside the village of Little Bentley, a five-minute walk from the local pub and a ten-minute drive from Colchester, this rustic barn is nestled on a working farm. Previously a popular children's café with fun play areas both indoors and out, it's an ancient barn that retains a great deal of rustic charm. 

Quirky and imaginative, it's a family home with an emphasis on keeping the little ones entertained (and safe – it's fully child-proofed). The huge living space is dominated at one end by a log burner, with aged leather sofas and throws perfect for cosying up on winter nights, while the other end features a super cool, Scandi-style kitchen – complete with a professional café coffee machine that's been left in situ so you can play barista. Fun things about this room include the chalkboard wall, a movie projector for film nights and an indoor hammock chair.  

One of the bedrooms is aimed at kids, with twin beds, funky lights, chalkboards, toys and books. But as if that wasn't enough, they have a whole play area in the main space, where imaginations can run wild thanks to a wooden teepee, a wooden shop and a range of homemade superhero capes to choose from. There's more outside with a willow tunnel and mud kitchen. As the sun sets, toast some marshmallows around the fire pit before heading to your cosy beds.

Gooseberry Fool

Wheelchair Access

Set within 100 acres of parkland, these former stables put open countryside walks and wildlife on your doorstep. Wander across the fields to the deserted medieval village of Godwick, where a ruined church tower juts out from the ground. It’s also a half-hour drive to Wells-Next-the-Sea, a pretty seaside town in the Norfolk Coast AONB. The 19th-century stable block has been transformed into a cosy country bolthole for a family or group of friends. You can spot the village’s old church tower from your private garden, where a patio provides a place to sit in the sun and fire up the gas barbecue, and a vast lawn stretches before you. Or, head inside to the sunny kitchen diner where dining is set for the whole group. Scandi-chic interiors make for a relaxing living room, set around a traditional wood-burning stove should the weather turn chilly. Bedrooms blend in with the estate’s wonderful ladscape, with autumnal tree motifs on feature walls lulling you off to sleep. The only sounds around here are the swish of towering trees and birdsong in the morning. 

Astrophil & Stella

Games Console

Rice Maker

Trash Compactor

Baby Monitor

Ceiling Fans

Stair Gates

This Suffolk country home is a real feast for the senses. There are a whole host of features that you would expect to see in a rural property — for instance, the wooden ceiling beams, flagstone flooring, and antique beds. However, there are also lots that you wouldn't, like the eclectic art collection, the bright colour palette, and even an enviable amount of lego figurines. Though the inside is quirky as can be, the real fun starts when you head outside. On the patio, guests will find a barbecue, plenty of seating and a hot tub — that's summer evenings sorted, then. Venture further into the grounds and you'll come across a children's play area and a replica space rocket installation. The nearest village with a pub — Westhall — is less than twenty minutes' walk away, while the seaside town of Southwold can be reached in a similar amount of time in the car. However, if you just fancy staying in, the host can arrange for a private chef, masseuse or nail therapist to pay a visit to the house.

To Boldly Go

Changing Table

Paid Parking On Street

Courtyard

Perched a five-minute stroll away from Caister-on-Sea Beach, this spot offers an idyllic setting for a family to come together for a refreshing break by the sea. Inside the home, a vast open plan living area, furnished with timeless furniture and decoration offers a sophisticated space to relax all year round. Whether you visit during the sunny summer's months or in the chill of winter, this home remains a warm, welcoming and tranquil place to retreat to when seeking an escape from the mundane. From the living space, large glass sliding doors invite in plenty of natural daylight from the outside patio – perfect for relaxing amidst the sea air. Fire up the barbecue or chill with a book in hand on the corner sofa, before heading down to the beach to catch the sunset. And if you head upstairs (and stand on tiptoes), you can catch a glimpse of the sea from the attic window – the beach is just 300 metres away after all. After a day on the beach, call into the village to nosey around the local shops and boutiques followed by a bite to eat at one of the local restaurants or cafes. With everything within walking distance, there is little need to travel by car when you don't feel like leaving Caister-on-Sea. But if you do fancy a little drive out, Great Yarmouth is only ten minutes down the road and well worth a visit. 

'Tis the Sea-Sun

If you're looking for somewhere that embraces slow country living yet has all the little luxuries you'll need for a getaway, this converted goat shed is sure to do the trick. Situated on the grounds of a family-run farm dating back as far as the 1300s, we think it's the perfect bolthole for a romantic, restful weekend in the great outdoors.

Inside, vaulted ceilings sport original wooden beams, while enormous glass walls flood the space with sunlight. Books and board games line the shelves, cushy sofas are perfect for snuggling and a delightful wood burner keeps everything toasty warm on chilly evenings. We love the small but well-equipped kitchen – you'll have everything you need to rustle up dinner – and the sumptuous bathtub is just the ticket after an invigorating walk through the countryside. On summer days, take your relaxing onto the private courtyard garden, gathering around the fire pit and firing up the barbecue for an alfresco feast when you grow peckish.

Spend sunny afternoons strolling around the farm, admiring the prehistoric ponds – they're some of the last remaining ones in the country. This home is nestled in the heart of the Brecks, where wild forests, craggy heaths and twisted pines are rife for rambling. It sits along the Peddars Way – ideal for walkers, cyclers and horseback riders travelling along the ancient route – plus it's within easy reach of Norwich and an hour's drive from Norfolk's stunning beaches when you fancy a day by the sea.

The Goat Shed

If you’re looking for a real away-from-it-all retreat that’s truly one of a kind, then look no further than this home on the Norfolk Coast. Featured on Channel 4's Homes by the Sea, it’s located right next to the dunes at Winterton-on-Sea, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. A former working lighthouse, it’s perfect for a peaceful stay with a surreal fairytale quality. When we visited, we were particularly impressed by the unusual round rooms that stack up on top of one another. Once filled with nautical equipment, these are now well designed spaces with beautiful furniture and objects, including an impressive library, bunk-bed room for kids, living room, and finally a lofty viewing platform bedroom (not for the faint hearted). Down on ground level you’ll find a contemporary open-plan space where you can cook in the shiny stainless steel kitchen or bask in the warmth of the wood burner as you eat dinner in the relaxed dining area. Folding doors give access out into the small garden for picnics or al fresco breakfasts. Families in particular will love the easy access to seaside life, including great fish and chips, good local pubs, parks and boat-trips. The Norfolk Broads is also nearby; the UK's largest wetland area, it's perfect for boating, cycling and walking. In short, this is a great home for those who want to experience everything a Norfolk staycation has to offer, while staying somewhere with real wow factor. 

The Norfolk Beacon

Electricity Adaptors

Dating back as far as the 1470s when Sir James Hobart (a confidante of Henry VII) built a family estate, This home is one of the most spectacular places we’ve ever seen and truly perfect for family gatherings, breaks away with friends, weddings, and more. Step into history oozing with the finest luxury afforded to the home's guests, including ample space as, on top of the main hall, there’s also the Gatehouse, the Cottage, and the Garden Rooms, as well a separate barn for hosting events, and of course the grounds. The history of this home has been preserved immaculately, while at the same time, modern comforts are around every corner. Either as a gateway to the Broads, or as a destination in itself, you can’t go wrong.

The facilities available at the hall are second to none, with no need or whim uncatered for, including perfectly equipped kitchens, games room, library, a wealth of entertainment, cosy open fires and woodburners, lawns and meadows, and even a moat, and should you wish to prize yourself away from this phenomenal home and head on out to explore, the bustling seaside town of Great Yarmouth is just a twenty-seven-minute drive away, while the Norwich city centre can be reached in twenty-two minutes by car, and is perfect for those shopping needs. We highly recommend trying out the cosy pubs around the area for a good pint and perfect company.

The Hobart Spring Estate

A restorative family-home with stylish interiors in the heart of the Norfolk Broads. Located just a seven-minute walk from the charming riverbank village of Horning, you'll have easy access to all of the local inns, restaurants, small shops and tea rooms. Back inside, it's a modern, beautifully decorated house with all of the mod-cons needed for larger groups to enjoy a comfortable stay. The colourful, light-filled living room benefits from bi-folding patio doors that extend out to a crowd-pleasing garden that boasts a spa-style hot tub, bar area and outdoor seating, so you can spend lazy evenings dipping in-and-out of the jacuzzi, sipping drinks and swapping stories. On chillier nights, chum up and challenge your friends and family to a round of pool or foosball in the games room. Or break open a bottle of wine in the sleek, chef's kitchen and plate up the catch of the day – there's plenty of fishing opportunities nearby, so be sure to bring your rods. In fact, the best way to discover this achingly quaint holiday destination is by hopping on one of the daily boat trips that take you all the way down the river and are readily available from in the village. 

Swallowtail Summer

Hidden away next to ancient woodland in rural Essex, this cabin is a British getaway that overflows with quirk and charm.

Inside, classically styled furnishings, such as the tufted Chesterfield, oak dining table and the four-poster bed that's come straight out of a fairytale, rub shoulders with the eclectic animal portraits that dot the wall, the antler chandelier and antique-style gramophone — which actually works in case you're in the mood for a boogie. The copper rolltop bathtub that lies just next to the bed is another decadent touch that we can't help but salute.

The home's exterior is full of pleasant surprises, too. When the weather's warm enough — and even when it's not — you can sit out in the home's hot tub, before drying off on one of the egg chairs next to the roaring fire pit. It's possible to hear the sounds of wildlife from the neighbouring forest, as well as the occasional roar from Colchester Zoo, which is less than ten minutes' drive from the home.

Elsewhere in the local area, the huge Abberton Reservoir takes five minutes to reach in the car and offers spectacular birdwatching opportunities. The local village of Layer de la Haye, with its pair of pubs and farm shop, is a ten-minute walk away, too.

Kooky Cabin

There are too many good things about The Hobart Spring to list, but suffice to say that it’s every bit as good as it looks. Most of the buildings date to the 1470s, when Sir James Hobart (later attorney general to the king) built his family home. Our favourite room (not an easy decision) is the kitchen, which looks beautifully traditional, but alongside the Aga, has an electric oven, gas hob, espresso machine and more. You can also pick herbs from the raised beds in the back. Either as a gateway to the Broads, or as a destination in itself, you can’t go wrong.

The Hobart Spring

Valet Parking

Experience a rare treat – a stay at a truly grand stately home, nestled in the middle of a beautiful country estate, steeped in history and offering more than a taste of luxury. A filming location for Netflix’s uber-popular hit, The Crown, this home will make you feel like royalty from the moment you arrive. 

Dating back to the Saxon times, the house as it appears today was created during the reign of Queen Victoria, with the help of the visionary architect, John Thomas and renowned landscape designer William Andrews Nesfield. As you arrive you’ll be dazzled by the spectacular gardens, known as one of the finest in the country – guests will be able to spend hours wandering through the enchanted alleyways, exploring the maze and the parkland and cooling off in the wild freshwater pool. 

The main Hall will welcome you in lavish style – great rooms with grand pianos, a library with rare, gilded books, and dining rooms with long tables for the group to gather and celebrate special occasions or delicious family feasts served in true style. You'll be able to sample those unforgettable menus, created by a team of chefs who use only the best local and sustainably sourced produce. Each of the twelve bedrooms retains the character of a Victorian mansion with a collection of antique furniture that’s seen many esteemed guests stay here over the home's long history. If only these walls could talk! 

Outside, this family-run estate offers everything from bike trails, horse stables and woodland walks, to cocktail classes, wine tastings and foraging. The grand rewilding project has seen 1,000 acres become home to an abundance of wildlife, making a stay here a unique experience for nature lovers too. 

Lords & Ladies

Deep within the Suffolk Heaths Area of Natural Beauty, this barn turned cottage sits on the outskirts of Orford village. This puts the raw beauty of the Heaths in one direction, and the bakeries, shops and pubs of Orford a five-minute walk away in the other. From here you can access the River Alde and the wildlife-filled marshes of Orford Ness nature reserve. There’s something Viking-like about the exterior of the old barn, in darkwood cladding. And indeed, this site has ties with the Vikings and Roman, with records as far back as the 14th century mentioning the barn. Inside you’ll find a modern haven with charming touches. The open-plan kitchen, living and dining room is a cosy yet sociable spot where the country-style kitchen has everything you need for self-catering. Throw open the French doors and let in the country air. Just outside there’s a private patio and walled garden for evening drinks or meals outside. If you want to practice your serve, your hosts can arrange access to the private tennis court at their sister home, a two-minute walk away. 

The Viking Barn

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