Top 10 Ways to Stay on The Suffolk Coast

Holiday accommodation doesn’t get much quirkier than the famous House in the Clouds (once a water tower) which sits in the lovely village of Thorpeness. If you’re looking for eccentric family accommodation with 5 bedrooms, superb facilities and unrivaled views across the adjacent golf course, famous Meare and beyond, then this one could be for you. It’s in high demand though as you might expect, so early booking is advised!

You don't get much cooler than Five Acre Barn in Aldringham near Aldeburgh. The scandi-styled barn has 5 bright and stylish rooms, each with their own sitting room, bathroom and access to the 5 acres of surrounding gardens. The barn is also available to hire as a self-catering property; so you can bring the whole family, or spend time with a group of friends.

For an eclectic ‘east meets west’ twist, check out Belle Grove in the market town of Halesworth. Five gorgeously converted barns simply ooze character and comfort. With rural walks on the doorstep, it’s the perfect place to escape, unwind, de-stress and relax.

Labradoodles 'Teddy' & 'Amber' invite dogs and their owners to stay! Letheringham Water Mill Cottages have blown away the cobwebs from traditional dog friendly holiday cottages with their award-winning 5* exclusive portfolio. Nestling in the heart of beautiful rural Suffolk, close to the bustling market town of Woodbridge and the Heritage Suffolk Coast, this is the ideal place to relax with two and four legged friends. There are 5 magical places to stay - 4 riverside decked cottages and The Mill House - all set beside the River Deben within 7 acres of trees and greenery at this historic Grade II Water Mill.

Wake up to the sounds of the river and book a peaceful stay at Hippersons Boatyard! Stay over dry land in one of the pods or try out the new luxury floating pod! Sleeping 4 it has underfloor heating and an outside floating deck where you can sit and watch the sunrise and sunset over Beccles Quay. 

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There’s a wide variety of self-catering holiday homes to choose from on The Suffolk Coast. If you’re unsure of where you want to stay, booking with an agency which has expert knowledge of the area might be a good idea.

You’ll be given the very best advice and information about holiday properties on The Suffolk Coast and guidance about where to find best beaches, things to do, where to eat and the scenic walking routes. There are several excellent agencies to choose from including, All Seasons Cottage Breaks, Best of Suffolk, Original Cottages, Durrants Holiday Cottages, Suffolk Secrets, Suffolk Cottage Holidays, Snape Maltings Holiday Cottages, holidaycottages.co.uk, Suffolk Hideaways, Suffolk Coastal Cottages, Aldeburgh Coastal Cottages and Suffolk Coastal Escapes.

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When you decide on a self-catering holiday on the Suffolk Coast, your biggest dilemma will be choosing from the huge range of cottages, big houses & barns, apartments and lodges on offer! 

Mollett’s Farm is a family-run haven of peace and tranquility near Suffolk’s Heritage Coast. Spend a few days on Sasha and Richard's farm, staying in one of their six new luxury cottages and studios, or bring the camper and pitch up on one of their five spots. You’ll be in the grassy fields of this small farm, and an easy drive to Aldeburgh, Snape, Southwold, Woodbridge and Framlingham.

The Summer House at Abbey Farm is a converted cart lodge conveniently located for visiting Snape Maltings and Aldeburgh and is surrounded by an RSPB reserve. Open plan living, with beautiful enclosed gardens and patios, close to fabulous pubs and eateries, perfect for a short break to get away from it all!

The Curious Oyster is a fabulous single-storey holiday cottage in the heart of historic Orford. Located in a secluded spot with views of Orford's twelfth-century castle, couples can retreat to the tranquil town and enjoy walks, bird watching, river cruises and tasting the exquisite choice of seafood delights that Pinney's the famous smokehouse has to offer.

If you're looking for somewhere to host a family gathering, then Old Hall Farm Barns, Iken Barns, School Farm Cottages, Wheatacre Hall Barns or Lodge Farm Cottages are just for you! Each boasting a selection of self-catering accommodation with plenty of space for all family members to stay and enjoy a BBQ or dinner. 

If you're planning a holiday with children, then take a look at these fun places to stay with kids, or for a couples break, our top spots for a romantic weekend!

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A great option for family holidays as they often have some great facilities to keep the little ones entertained…

Heathland Beach Holiday Park has not one, but three heated pools, tennis courts, fishing, bar, play areas for children and access to Kessingland’s beautiful sandy beach.

If you prefer something a little quieter the luxury log cabins at Windmill Lodges near Framlingham each have their own private hot tub and there is access to a swimming pool between Easter and October.

Similarly, High Lodge Leisure boasts fantastic self-catering lodges amidst 100 acres of woodland and countryside, right on the doorstep of Southwold and Aldeburgh. Keen anglers can indulge in a spot of fishing in the well-stocked lakes, enjoy golf, archery and clay pigeon shooting on your doorstep.

Cliff House Holiday Park is an award winning 30 acre 5 star EATB rated holiday park in Dunwich, specialising in lodges, static caravans, self catering accommodation; including investment purchase self catering, camping and touring caravan pitches. Located right on the beach at Dunwich, and close to RSPB Minsmere and Dunwich Heath, the park is a short drive from the traditional seaside towns of Southwold and Aldeburgh.

Kingfishers at Cretingham Country Park is a glorious 120 acre park offering a range of accommodation including shepherds huts with wood burning stoves, kingsize beds, underfloor heating and en-suites, luxury Log Cabins with open plan living, hot tubs and private gardens, beautiful bell tents and camping pitches with electric hook up. Family-friendly facilities include a cafe and restaurant, golf course, fitness & wellbeing treatment rooms, boating lake with boat and kayak hire and a nature trail.

Set in a beautiful woodland location with fully stocked fishing lakes and plenty of family-friendly facilities, Carlton Meres near Saxmundham boasts a tranquil location and an abundance of wildlife - a nature lovers haven. 

Suffolk Sands is a small, relaxing holiday park which enjoys a stunning beachfront location in Felixstowe. If you're looking for a quiet, relaxing park to get away from the every day stresses of life, then Suffolk Sands is the ideal holiday park for you. Situated between the estuaries of the Rivers Orwell and Deben on the coast, Suffolk Sands is the perfect base for exploring the heritage coast and rural villages that Suffolk has to offer. 

Whilst Felixstowe Beach Holiday Park enjoys a fantastic coastal location, and is just minutes away from the award-winning beach. There's plenty for the whole family to do; with evening entertainment all year round and a heated swimming pool with flumes. 

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If you're looking for a little extravagance or perhaps indulging in spending time with friends and family then you can certainly do this at Bruisyard Hall, a 14th-century building, steeped in history which caters for every type of gathering. Featuring a snooker room, a huge kitchen, a dining room for 24 (around one table), a drawing room with log fire, an attic bar, lawn games, secluded gardens and a fishing lake.

For romance and relaxation, stay in the beautiful ancient Priory as seen on Channel 4's Extraordinary Escapes. The 13th century, Grade 1 Listed Priory is the former gatehouse to an Augustinian monastery founded in 1171, peacefully situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty close to Suffolk's coast, surrounded by woodland and forest.

This architectural gem was described by Vogue as "one of the most romantic houses in England" and was recently featured on Channel 4's Extraordinary Escapes with Sandy Toksvig and Alison Stedman.

More than just a hotel, The Swan aims to bring you the ultimate Adnams and Southwold experience. Whether you’re seeking an indulgent escape, an insight into the crafts of brewing and distilling or a wholesome wellness break, The Swan is ready to welcome you. With the Adnams brewery and distillery right on your doorstep, you can be immersed in the wonderful world of beer and spirits, or you can explore Southwold and the stunning countryside surrounding it. 

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We have a fabulous selection of truly cool & charming camping and caravan sites in Suffolk that leave you feeling totally relaxed and at one with nature.

Wardley Hill Campsite is an eco campsite offering unregimented and relaxed car free camping. Luxurious Bell Tents and a Shepherds Hut are on offer for those of you who don't want to pack your own tent pegs and your dog can enjoy a holiday too!

Winning a David Bellamy Gold award for conservation is Haw Wood Farm - A peaceful site near Darsham for touring caravans and tents, known for their spacious pitches and friendly service. It also has one of the best playground facilities in the area that keeps kids of all ages entertained which is perfectly placed for you to be able keep an eye on your young family while enjoying a relaxing drink from the cafe.

Nestled between the coastal towns of Southwold and Aldeburgh is Mill Hill Farm Caravanning & Camping Park. The peace and quiet of this camp site's surroundings makes this an ideal location for a 'get away from it all' relaxing break, with panoramic views over the farmland for those lazy breakfasts and stunning sunsets as a backdrop for your barbeques after a day’s fishing or sightseeing.

Run Cottage Touring Park is a small family run adult only site located on Suffolk's beautiful Heritage coast, close to the market town of Woodbridge. Run Cottage offers peace and tranquillity, a place to escape the hustle and bustle of today’s busy lifestyle and the perfect base to see the sights of Suffolk. It has an abundance of wildlife on the doorstep, including native birds, barn owls, deer, ducks and the elusive kingfisher. There is a well-stocked village shop and pub as well as a shingle beach all within easy walking distance.

Great for families, The Croft Campsite in Ubbeston near Halesworth welcomes tents, motorhomes, campervans and caravans and boasts high-quality bathroom and shower facilities, with underfloor heating, spacious pitches, pre-erected tents, a recreation field for football, flying kites and games and for wet weather days, a Cart Lodge with picnic tables, table tennis and ride on toys. 

Firepits are available for rent and wood is on sale for a very reasonable price to enhance your camping experience. The campsite hosts Friday night BBQ's and serves pain au chocolat and croissants every morning and bacon and sausage and egg rolls on a Sunday.

At Shottisham Campsite there are fifty spacious touring and camping pitches spread between five small fields, sheltered by native trees and bushes in the heart of the Deben Peninsula.

This beautiful campsite is part of a working smallholding with rare breed sheep, pigs, alpacas, goats and chickens - and you are welcome to help as the animals are fed and eggs collected each evening! Dogs on leads are welcome and you can enjoy direct access from the campsite to walking trails through acres of heathland, forest and fields. 

If you're looking for a child-free break, Brick Kiln Farm is an adult-only camping and self-catering campsite surrounded by countryside in Campsea Ashe near Woodbridge. Awake to birdsong and explore the surrounding countryside and enjoy the peace and quiet.

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The name says it all, conjuring up that perfect blend of the simplicity of camping with that added touch of glamour!

Kenton Hall Estate set in the heart of Suffolk offers just this - unique glamping with more than a touch of luxury. And when they say luxury – they mean it! Think king size beds, 100% cotton sheets, log burning stoves and private shower rooms!

Shhh… at Secret Meadows, it seems rather cheeky to associate the accommodation with camping at all! We’re talking Luxury Lodge Tents which are beautifully furnished (including a hand crafted 4-poster bed) for a country-inspired home away from home while the quirky Gypsy's Rest (gypsy caravan with shepherd's hut), and Hobbit Box, provide their own special charms with wooded surrounds, meadow views and the highest glamping standards.

Set in the gardens of an award winning pub, Alde Garden offers a unique range of accommodation - from tent pitches right up to a 4 star holiday cottage. And. For those of you who struggle to leave modern technology behind, there’s free WiFi!

Boundary Farm Glamping offers luxury safari tents set in a two-acre meadow, on a family-run arable farm near Saxmundham and the Suffolk coast. Unwind and immerse yourself in a simpler way of living, with added home comforts, but without life's daily the distractions. Hear the sounds of the dawn chorus undisturbed by traffic and enjoy the majestic sunset views from your own luxury safari tent. Children can roam the meadow, and play the old fashioned way. Relax in a safari tent with its very own shower and toilet facilities, wood burner, fully equipped kitchen, fire pit, bbq and cozy bedding.

Listen to the sound of water lapping underneath you in the luxury glamping pod at Hippersons Boatyard! The pod sleeps 4 and has underfloor heating and an outside floating deck where you can sit and watch the sunrise and sunset over Beccles Quay. It has a two ring hob and a microwave with a double room and bunk beds in a separate room. 

A small glamping site just a short drive from Southwold and Beccles, Barn Owl Glade is home to 2 self-catering holiday cottages, one with hot tub and 4 glamping pods. The site also boasts a range of family-friendly facilities including an indoor heated swimming pool, clubhouse featuring games room, WIFI lounge and country shop. 

Nestled in a private estate, Wantisden Park glamping site overlooks ancient woodland and water which is home to countless species of wildlife and plants - perfect for nature lovers and those wishing to explore on foot or bike. Their range of pods are designed for those that enjoy the outside but appreciate a touch of luxury. All are beautifully furnished with their own beds, fully equipped kitchen, shower and toilet meaning that there is no need to worry about packing bedding, towels or kitchen utensils!

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If perhaps you prefer to escape all the chores of everyday life and be waited on a little, then or selection of superb hotels will not disappoint!

With pretty, pastel-coloured cottages and independent shops and boutiques which line the High Street, Aldeburgh hosts the beautiful seafront hotels of The Wentworth, The Brudenell and The White Lion, perfect for relaxing and rejuvenating with all that glorious sea air, those wide skies and fabulous freshly caught fish and seafood, straight off the beach!

Exuding a luxury status in every curious corner is The Salthouse Harbour Hotel in Ipswich. One of Suffolk's most iconic hotels, it offers a 4-star hotel experience with award-winning cuisine in one of the county’s most beautiful settings.

Heading North along the fabulous Suffolk Coast you'll come across Lowestoft with its stunning beach! The Hatfield Hotel is quite literally a stone's throw from the glorious golden sands. There's a stylish bar too, so you can sip on a cocktail or glass of champagne and watch the sun set over the sea. 

The Orwell Hotel in Felixstowe offers comfortable accommodation, excellent cuisine, fine wine, great service and a friendly atmosphere all provided by their highly trained team. The Orwell is ideally located in the town centre of the Edwardian resort of Felixstowe, with excellent train links into Ipswich and then onto London, as well as for visiting Cambridge and Norwich. The charm and elegant décor of this Victorian hotel dating back to 1898 offers a welcome retreat for all guests. And for those looking for a spot of golf to while away the hours, head to the Thorpeness Hotel and Golf Club.

The bustling seaside town of Southwold is home to two fabulous Adnams hotels - The Swan and The Crown Hotel are right in the heart of it all, offering wonderful accommodation, food and drink just a short stroll from the sea and famous Southwold Pier.

For those who prefer being in the heart of market towns within walking distance of wonderful independent shops, delis, restaurants and theatres head to The Angel in Halesworth and The Crown at Woodbridge. Both offer the perfect base to explore on foot and are within easy reach of the coast.

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Gone are the days when accommodation in pubs turned out to be a pokey little room with a shared bathroom…Our selection of pubs and inns on the Suffolk Coast take it to a whole new level!

The Westleton Crown combines the character and charm of its coaching inn heritage with the comforts of contemporary living: smouldering log fires, 34 stylish bedrooms, award winning AA 2 rosette restaurant, sophisticated wine list and delightful terraced gardens. Dating back to the 12th century, this traditional Suffolk coaching Inn retains the character and rustic charm of its heritage – but with the added sophistication and comforts of contemporary living.

Good food is at the heart of the Crown and Castle in Orford – A pub renowned for a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere that allows guests to enjoy their surroundings and feel free to take their time. There are few places better on The Suffolk Coast to enjoy the blue skies and sunshine than Orford, a small fishing village known for its bounty of excellent local food and peaceful atmosphere.

Whether you want to use The Ship at Dunwich as a base to explore this wild and wonderful coastline, enjoy some of the best fish and chips on the Suffolk Coast or simply indulge in a pint or two of Adnams, you’re guaranteed the warmest of welcomes. The Ship at Dunwich is a great pub, with home-cooked food in the restaurant, a cosy hotel with comfortable, traditionally furnished bedrooms,some with views across the sea or marshes. Perfect for leisurely beach walks or snuggling up with a good book and going nowhere!

Nestled in the beautiful village of Walberswick are two fabulous Inns offering a whole heap of history along with great rooms, food and hospitality - check out The Bell Inn with it's 600 years worth of history and The Anchor complete with delightful rooms and garden chalets!

Both The Dolphin Inn, in Thorpeness serves fabulous local produce on their menus, with a small number of very comfortable rooms, they give you a true taste of being a Suffolk coast local! 

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If B&Bs conjure up images of cramped bedrooms and less than convivial landladies, then think again!

Surround yourself in beautiful countryside at Oak Tree Farm which is set in six acres just outside Yoxford. It’s perfectly located within a few miles of many of the attractions and lovely places in the area including Southwold, Aldeburgh and Framlingham.

Crown House is a grade II listed, 16th Century house, full of character, exposed beams and open fires with rooms boasting kingsize beds; fine down duvets and pillows, Egyptian cotton sheets and sympathetically designed modern bathrooms. A jewel of a B&B in a very quiet location, next to a lovely pub in the picturesque village of Great Glemham; just 1.5 miles off the A12 and 15 minutes from the sea. 

Willow Tree Cottage is set back off the road with its own private drive in a peaceful location on the outskirts of the pretty village of Kelsale. Just three miles from the music centre of Snape Maltings with shops and art galleries. Aldeburgh is also close by together with Southwold with its famous pier. History lovers should head to Sutton Hoo and the castles at Framlingham and Orford.

For nature lovers head to Bawdsey Hall, situated on a small nature reserve providing opportunities for photographers, birders, entomologists, lepidopterists, wildlife enthusiasts and anyone wanting to relax in quiet surroundings. A building steeped in history on the Suffolk Heritage Coast, with records dating back to the 17th Century, it now provides a quiet retreat with charm and character. 

Offering boutique B&B in the heart of Lowestoft don't miss The Clyffe Hotel, right on the seafront opposite Claremont Pier. Each of the 16 bedrooms has been individually designed and decorated in soothing colours and stunning fabrics complemented with new comfy beds, crisp white linens, high-quality duvets and pillows, fluffy white towels and an eclectic mix of furniture.

A Suffolk pink restored Grade 2 listed farmhouse, Vicarage Farmhouse B&B is set along a quiet country lane with beautiful views. There is a downstairs en-suite bedroom opening onto the garden, and on the first-floor, a traditional farmhouse bedroom with en-suite, and delightful views. The historic town of Bungay is a 5-minute drive away, where you will find interesting independent shops, tea rooms and pubs. 

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