EXPLORE
SUFFOLK
From pretty villages full of chocolate box cottages to seaside towns on the rugged coast, Suffolk has something for everyone.
If you’re looking for a slow-paced UK staycation that will impress all ages, Suffolk should be top of your list. Not only is it home to a rich history, beautiful villages and bustling market towns, but it’s also a great base for exploring the incredible Suffolk coast as well as nearby Norfolk.
Nestled in East Anglia, there really is something for everyone. And holiday accommodation is just as varied too. Choose between traditional cottages with features like exposed beams, huge farmhouses with ample outdoor space and stylish barn conversions with a whole host of luxury additions.
At Staycations UK, we can help you to plan the perfect Suffolk staycation too – whether you know what you want or have no idea. We also have a range of deals and last minute offers available so you don’t need to worry about breaking the bank. Why not start your search today?
POOL
ROSE BARN
SUFFOLK
Tastefully restored, Rose Barn is the perfect hideaway for a couple or family wanting to explore a bit of rural Suffolk. Featuring an outdoor swimming pool.
From £29 pppn | Sleeps 4
THE MEADOWS DAIRY
SUFFOLK
This lovely holiday home on The Manor House Estate in Bawdsey provides a peaceful location for a family holiday and 80 acres of park and farmland to explore. There is a shared, heated outdoor swimming pool and a tennis court and the barn is close to the coast and River Deben estuary.
From £38 pppn | Sleeps 5
COCKERELLS HALL
SUFFOLK
This beautiful hall, with parts dating from the late 16th century, provides all you could want for a wonderful family stay. Besides the extensive, spacious accommodation there are beautiful gardens around the hall to explore along with access to a gym and an outdoor swimming pool.
From £34 pppn | Sleeps 10
ROSE AND COURT BARN
SUFFOLK
Rose and Court Barn are two adjoining properties which can be booked together for a fantastic break for friends or family. The barns have wonderful open-plan living spaces, sleep 10 and have the use of a pool and tennis court along with a large bar room.
From £30 pppn | Sleeps 10
HOT TUB
LITTLE TEY BARN
SUFFOLK
Situated close to the Essex-Suffolk border and set in 3 acres of private gardens including a decadent wood fired hot tub, Little Tey Barn is a luxurious escape for both family and friends.
From £118 pppn | Sleeps 14
DOVES BARN
SUFFOLK
A lovely 16th Century converted barn which is ideal for a special family gathering or celebration. The barn sleeps 22 guests and there’s plenty of space for everyone to enjoy a stay in Rural Suffolk, along with lots to do including a hot tub and games.
From £75 pppn | Sleeps 22
ENDYMION LODGE
SUFFOLK
This delightful lodge on Wakes Hall Farm is a haven of peace in 500 acres of private land. Boasting a five star AA award, it features an open plan kitchen/dining/sitting area, a verandah and a hot tub.
From £40 pppn | Sleeps 4
WOODBELL LODGE
SUFFOLK
One of five lodges peacefully situated in 500 acres of private land at Wakes Hall Farm, Woodbell Lodge has been awarded a five star AA award. Located on the Essex/Suffolk border, the historic town of Colchester is 40 minutes away.
From £30 pppn | Sleeps 4
RAMSON LODGE
SUFFOLK
This delightful Lodge on Wakes Hall Farm is a haven of peace in 500 acres of private land and has been awarded a five star AA award. Each lodge has the ultimate indulgence – a soothing hot tub with its own verandah. The historic town of Colchester is 40 minutes away.
From £29 pppn | Sleeps 4
BROOK LODGE
SUFFOLK
Boasting a a five star AA award, this delightful lodge on Wakes Hall Farm is a haven of peace in 500 acres of private land. Featuring an open plan kitchen/dining/sitting area, a verandah and a hot tub.
From £34 pppn | Sleeps 2
CAMPION LODGE
SUFFOLK
Situated on the Essex/Suffolk border, this stunning lodge is one of five lodges on Wakes Hall Farm, a haven of peace in 500 acres of private land. Awarded a five star AA award, each lodge has the ultimate indulgence – a soothing hot tub with its own verandah.
From £42 pppn | Sleeps 2
LARGE
GROVE FARM HOUSE & BLACK SWAN BARN
SUFFOLK
These two beautiful houses sleep 16 in total making a wonderful place for a special get together. Both properties have lots of things to make your stay very relaxing and enjoyable, not least being in peaceful countryside.
From £63 pppn | Sleeps 16
ALEXANDER HOUSE
SUFFOLK
Alexander House is tucked away in a quiet location in Thorpeness within easy walking distance of the beach, the Meare and the other amenities in the village. It is a superb property for a family holiday with lots on offer in the local area to keep everyone happy.
From £60 pppn | Sleeps 13
LODGE FARM
SUFFOLK
Lodge Farm is an ideal venue for larger family groups or friends to congregate and consists of three interconnected holiday cottages set in a rural location close to Ipswich. This stylish conversion has been carried out to a very high standard and furnished with individuality and charm.
From £58 pppn | Sleeps 12
GROVE FARM HOUSE
SUFFOLK
This beautiful farm house has been carefully renovated and provides a luxurious place to stay for a family or group of friends wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of life. There are lots of period features such as the exposed beams whilst also being well equipped with modern facilities.
From £53 pppn | Sleeps 10
THE PRESBYTERY
SUFFOLK
The Presbytery sleeps up to ten guests, making it a perfect place to have a family or friends get-together with lots of space to relax. There are beautiful views across the Stour Valley and the property has lots of original features to give it character.
From £10 pppn | Sleeps 16
HIGH HOUSE
SUFFOLK
High House is a perfect home for a get together with family or friends including your four legged member of the family. The house is situated in Wrentham and has easy access to the beautiful Suffolk coast and Southwold; or head inland to visit the market town of Beccles which has access onto the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads.
From £10 pppn | Sleeps 9
SHELLSEEKERS
SUFFOLK
Architecturally unrivalled in Aldeburgh, Shellseekers is a truly unique property within rolling distance of the beach, restaurants and Aldeburgh High Street.
From £42 pppn | Sleeps 8
DANES HOUSE
SUFFOLK
This elegant apartment, forming half of a large town house, offers tasteful and sophisticated accommodation in the heart of Aldeburgh.
From £17 pppn | Sleeps 8
Best towns for a staycation in Suffolk
From coastal to countryside and everything in between, Suffolk is home to some of the prettiest destinations in the UK.
Bury St Edmunds
Best for: Lazy days spent wandering the town
The bustling yet charming market town of Bury St Edmunds will definitely keep you busy. Steeped in history and boasting a great selection of shops, bars, cafes and local attractions, it’s not hard to fill your days here. For something truly special, a wander around the Abbey Gardens has got to be on your list. And afterwards, you could even stop at the Greene King Brewery.
Lavenham
Best for: Harry Potter fans
Fans of Britain’s favourite wizard will probably recognise the streets here but that’s not all Lavenham is famous for. It’s said to be the best kept medieval village in Britain and now houses some of the best restaurants and tearooms in the area. There’s also lots of countryside to explore meaning it’s an ideal choice if you want to bring your dogs along.
Aldeburgh
Best for: Those who love watersports
Home to a gorgeous shingle beach, Aldeburgh is popular with those seeking fantastic waves and blue oceans. In fact, the water conditions are perfect for watersports. If you’d rather stay dry, however, the streets are lined with boutique shops and independent stores which are ideal for perusing.
Woodbridge
Best for: Getting close to nature
The historic riverside town of Woodbridge sits on the edge of an area of outstanding natural beauty. Stroll along the water’s edge, take a look at the local boatyards and don’t forget to head to the monthly Farmers’ Market for a few delicious goodies.
Southwold
Best for: A traditional seaside break
Southwold is a picture-perfect seaside town boasting a gorgeous promenade, bright coloured beach houses and lots of fantastic places to eat. Popular with families and couples, days can be spent exploring the streets and its shops, tasting the local cider or relaxing on the golden sands.
Ipswich
Best for: A charming town feel
Sitting pretty on the River Orwell, Ipswich is a waterfront town that boasts a great selection of cafes, shops, galleries and museums. As one of the oldest towns in Britain, there’s a lot of stories about its past and fantastic art and theatre scene to bring it to life.
Best walks in Suffolk
From hour-long strolls to challenging hikes, Suffolk has lots of walking routes – some which are easy and others which are set to challenge you.
Nowton Park Loop
Location: Bury St Edmunds
Difficulty: Easy
Walk length: Four and a half miles
The circular Nowton Park Loop is an easy way to explore some of the best green parks in Bury St Edmunds, and can be enjoyed by all ages and walking abilities. Ideal for an afternoon stroll, it’s relatively flat all the way round.
The Lavenham and Long Melford
Location: Lavenham
Difficulty: Medium
Walk length: Nine and a half miles
The Lavenham and Long Melford walk will see you head through a conservation area, along signposted footpaths and through medieval towns. As well as being a great opportunity to explore the local area, there’s also lots of independent shops and cafes ready to welcome you.
Aldeburgh Circular Walk
Location: Aldeburgh
Difficulty: Medium
Walk length: Six miles
Nature lovers will be mesmerised during the Aldeburgh Circular Walk which takes you through the town of Aldeburgh, along the river and through some marshes. Expect to see lots of wildlife, dense plants and rolling meadows. For this reason, it’s very popular with birdwatchers.
Sutton Hoo Ferry Cliff Walk
Location: Woodbridge
Difficulty: Medium
Walk length: Three Miles
Famous because the sixth-century burial ship was found here in 1938, the Sutton Hoo Cliff Walk will lead you directly to the spot. The Sutton Hoo estate is also home to a beautiful estate house which makes for a fantastic day trip. You could also take a picnic to enjoy in the estate grounds.
Southwold Harbour
Location: Southwold
Difficulty: Medium
Walk length: Just over three miles
A gentle coastal walk around Southwold Harbour is a great way to either kickstart your day or bring it to a close. Covering countryside and town paths, it’s suitable for everyone and even your four-legged friends can run along ahead. Why not book a table at one of the local pubs for afterwards?
Around Ipswich Walk
Location: Ipswich
Difficulty: Moderate
Walk length: Eight miles
If you want to explore Ipswich on foot, the Around Ipswich Walk is a great way to do it. The route takes you around the town, past rivers and through lots of green spaces. You’ll also join the Suffolk Coast Path which will take you up to the harbour and marina if you want to carry on your walk.
Must see places in Suffolk
Foodies, sports lovers, adventurers and more won’t be bored in Suffolk, with plenty of things to do and see – whatever the season.
Southwold Pier
Best for: Taking in those sea views
Did you even visit a traditional British seaside town if you didn’t wander along the pier with fish and chips in hand? We think not. Described as the Jewel in the crown of East Suffolk, Southwold’s famous pier attracts visitors from all over. And it’s easy to see why. Along the 620ft feature, there’s plenty of arcade machines and lots of ice cream huts dotted around too.
Wyken Vineyard
Best for: Tasting the good old stuff
Situated in Suffolk’s incredible countryside, a day out at Wyken Vineyard provides you with an opportunity to try some local delicacies, explore the beautiful gardens and fields and discover how the wine is made. The farm is also home to llamas, cattle and sheep and there’s an award-winning restaurant on-site too.
Tide Mill
Best for: Learning about the area’s past
Give your kids a history lesson that they’ll enjoy at Suffolk’s Tide Mill – a working water mill on the banks of the harbour. Learn about how flour has been made here for the last 800 years and you can even take a bag home with you for your next batch of cakes! With lots of interactive activities and videos on show, it’s an easy way to spend an hour or two.
Snape Maltings
Best for: Those looking for a pitstop
If you’re travelling through the area and want to break up your journey, Snape Maltings is a great choice. It sits on the River Alde and houses shops, restaurants and a concert hall. It’s also surrounded by marshes which make for a great adventure after being cooped up in a car for hours.
The Great Church Yard
Best for: Seeing inspiring architecture
Head to Bury St Edmunds and you’ll find the Great Church Yard hidden between St Mary’s Church and the Abbey Gate. Here, old ruins have been transformed into contemporary dwellings as well as a quiet green space that’s perfect for spending a few hours in. If you’re looking for somewhere calm, this has got to be top of your list.
Orford Castle
Best for: A fun-filled family day out
Orford Castle is an original castle built by Henry II to protect the port. Head inside, adventure up the staircase and look out over Orford Ness. Just minutes from the river Alde, there’s plenty of cafes nearby to keep hungry tummies full, and lots of scenic routes to wander along once you’ve finished exploring.
Best pubs in Suffolk
From traditional inns to contemporary gastropubs, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to Suffolk pubs.
The Westleton Crown
Location: Westleton
An original 12th century coaching inn, The Westleton Crown sits on the Suffolk Heritage Coast and has done so for over 800 years. Inside, you’ll find a traditional bar area, a dining room and a door that leads onto the courtyard garden. Produce comes from local farmers and fishermen, and well-behaved dogs are allowed inside.
The Angel
Location: Lavenham
Dating back to 1820, this gastropub is in the heart of Lavenham’s market square. Here, service is relaxed but impressive, the interior features a number of traditional pieces and the food is definitely worth talking about. Popular with tourists and locals, you might want to ring ahead to secure a table though.
The Ramsholt Arms
Location: Woodbridge
Located on the River Deben, The Ramsholt Arms is ideal if you’re looking to relax for an hour or two. On the menu, you’ll find home-cooked meals and hearty stews which are perfectly washed down with a local ale or cider. The pub also has its very own slice of beach for kids to play on, and dogs are welcome too.
The George
Location: Cavendish
As one of the prettiest villages in Suffolk, it’s no surprise that Cavendish is home to incredible pubs too. The George is a 16th-century gastropub that boasts an impressive menu, quaint courtyard garden and five guest bedrooms for those who really want to make a weekend of it. Your four-legged friends are also free to join.
The Bildeston Crown
Location: Bildeston
Nestled in the Suffolk countryside, this Grade II listed pub is also a restaurant and hotel. Many of its original features still stand today but the menu is a little more contemporary with lobster caesar salad being a big favourite. There’s also a few rooms available for anyone looking to stay.
The Dolphin Inn
Location: Thorpeness
Head to the Suffolk Coast National Reserve at Thorpeness and you’ll find this community pub. Being so close to the sea, it’s no surprise that the menu takes a nautical theme. Plus, if you’re here in the summer, you might get to enjoy one of the renowned garden BBQs. Visitors also wander along the beach from Aldeburgh to reach this little gem.
Best places to eat in Suffolk
A long seafood lunch, honest pub grub or a quick bite to eat in a local cafe, whatever you’re looking for in Suffolk, there’s plenty of eateries to choose from.
The Crown and Castle
Location: Orford
Owned by Ruth Watson who has appeared on TV and hosted the Hotel Inspector, The Crown and Castle is a traditional inn that’s popular with tourists, locals and four-legged friends. The menu includes locally-caught fish as well cheese and goodies from Neals Yard. It can get quite booked up though so it’s worth reserving a table.
The Great House
Location: Lavenham
This award-winning restaurant has been named as one of the best in England by the Sunday Times, and we don’t disagree. Boasting a menu of classic and sophisticated French cuisine, this place is ideal for special occasions or simply splashing the boat out. The building itself also dates back to the 14th century and its architecture will definitely impress you too.
The Sail Loft
Location: Southwold
This relaxed eatery is ideal for those looking for a laid-back dining experience. In fact, there’s almost a Shoreditch feel to the place. Industrial furniture mixed with pendant lighting help to create an informal yet enjoyable environment. On the menu, you’ll find dirty burgers and asian salads, and there’s also a beachside hamper for those heading to the sands.
The Leaping Hare
Location: Bury St Edmunds
Situated in the grounds of the Wyken Vineyard, this restaurant and cafe serves up delicious meals – whatever the time of day. Ideal for lunch, afternoon tea or a full dinner experience, all ingredients are either grown in the kitchen garden or caught locally. The local area and estate is also great for a wander afterwards to work off your meal.
The Swan
Location: Long Melford
Looking for something special? This two AA Rosette restaurant offers a modern British menu with the likes of beef wellington and steak & kidney pudding. In terms of interior, it’s contemporary and sophisticated with a newly built garden room towards the back. Dogs and children are welcome here, meaning the whole family can enjoy a meal together.
1921 Angel Hill
Location: Bury St Edmunds
The kitchen here is run by Zack Deakins – who trained under a Michelin-starred chef. The establishment itself is elegant yet relaxed, and famous for its menu of frog leg canapes and Denham Castle lamb. If you’re looking for a special occasion meal but without the formalities, this is your place.
Why travel when you can enjoy the UK’s best Staycations