The Suffolk Coast is the East of England’s best kept secret and you can uncover a whole new slice of holiday excitement with these hidden gems of accommodation tucked away in rural bliss. From exquisite boutique hotels and cosy B&Bs, to camping, glamping and self-catering, you’ll be a step ahead of the rest with these lesser known and unexplored places to stay.
The Sail Loft
Tucked away down Ferry Road and literally a stone's throw from the beach, The Sail Loft was revamped two years ago, transforming into an exclusive beachside hideaway in the idyllic seaside town of Southwold.
The restaurant and bar area are rustic and contemporary, with far reaching views out across the marshes. The bedrooms are the gorgeously cosy with stunning views as well as private patio areas and bath sea views.
https://www.sailloftsouthwold.uk/
The Cross Keys
This grade II listed building at the heart of nautical Aldeburgh is a characterful and welcoming place for a short break, owned and run by Adnams, the famous Suffolk brewery. You’re sure to fall in love with Aldeburgh’s quirky shops, miles of coastal footpaths and pebbly beach and as the evening draws in you can amble back to The Cross Keys a pint of local ale and a cosy night spent in one of the three double bedrooms, complete with complimentary toiletries, WIFI and television.
https://www.adnams.co.uk/locations/the-cross-keys
Wardley Hill Campsite
A six-acre site near Bungay, Wardley Hill is paradise for nature lovers and the eco-conscious holiday maker. With woodland and streams, ponds and even a spring, this land has been left to its own devices, allowing wildlife to flourish.There are numerous unregimented and car free camping spots for you to choose from, some secluded and others wide and spacious.
If you’re more used to a few home comforts there is also a range of unusual glamping options available including a romantic stargazer tent complete with soft double bed, pillows and duvet, as well as a roaring firepit. Choose to stay in one of the well-appointed shepherd’s huts, with their vintage charm and modern conveniences such as solar powered phone charging and hot shower facilities.
https://www.wardleyhillcampsite.com/
Hippersons Boatyard
Indulge your inner child with a ‘Swallows and Amazons’ inspired experience at the Hipperson’s Boatyard. As the name suggests, this accommodation comprises a collection of unique houseboats and a floating pod located on a working boatyard on the River Waveney in Beccles.
The ‘Secret Water’ floating pod is the first of its kind in the UK, and sleeps up to 4 people in a double room and bunk beds. It has a generous deck out front so you can sit and watch the world come and go or set out onto the water with ease, utilising the kayaks and boats available to hire. The houseboats available offer privacy and relaxation; perfect for fishing or as a base for exploring the river. Wander into the delightful town of Beccles to pick up supplies or visit the Quay for an ice cream.
https://www.hippersons.co.uk/
Wantisden Park
Nestled in a private estate, Wantisden Park offers visitors the chance to really immerse themselves in the peace and tranquillity of nature. Overlooking ancient woodland and water, the park is home to countless species of wildlife and plants, which the eager eyed will enjoy spotting during their stay.
Anyone who enjoys the fun of rustic camping can pitch a tent and make the most of the utilities, small shop and café serving breakfast and lunch. If you enjoy a touch of luxury then look no further than the range of wooden pods, all furnished with beds and fully equipped kitchens, a shower and toilet.
https://www.wantisden.co.uk/wantisdenpark
Secret Meadows
The best-kept secrets can be discovered at this magical meadow full of irresistible accommodation options for young and old. The Secret Meadows take glamping to new heights with their award winning luxury spaces, green themed activities and special celebration packages.
The attention to detail, style and unique charm all have to be seen to be believed but you are sure to be whisked back to a world of childhood nostalgia; of building dens, playing outside and sleeping under the stars. Choose from ‘The Hobbit box’ with its cosy bunks and toasty wood burner, or opt for the romantic Gypsy caravans or luxury lodge tents with their immaculate stylings that bring nature to your doorstep.
Visitors can explore the nature trails, relax in the hot tub and can even adopt a coop of hens for the length of their stay, feeding the chickens and collecting their eggs each day.
http://www.wantisden.co.uk/wantisdenpark
Letheringham Water Mill Cottages
For lasting memories, escape to the historic
Letheringham Water Mill Cottages, which offer accommodation options for two to eight people. Choose to stay within the Mill building itself, where you will discover snug passageways with windows out onto the illuminated waterwheel of the mill.
Enjoy the ebb and flow of the nearby river as you relax in the rustic, neutral décor. Canine companions will be warmly welcomed at all the properties on site, and are free to run safely about the wide open meadows, with the surrounding waterways acting as a natural boundary.
Other properties on site include ‘The Old Stables’ with plump sofas, warm rugs and throws and king sized beds, as well as a chic wet room and heated towel rails. You’ll love spending the evening watching the sunset from the stunning riverside decking and waking up to the peaceful sounds of local wildlife. ‘The Hayloft’ enjoys both meadow and riverside decking- complete with resident swans and views of the awe-inspiring landscape.
The Summer House
Tucked away in an RSPB reserve, the
Summer House at Abbey Farm,
Snape is a converted cart lodge providing a wonderful place to stay for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. With two bedrooms and a sofa bed there is plenty of space for all the family to relax and rejuvenate, spending time in the enclosed garden and private patio or heading out to explore the sights of nearby Snape Maltings with its award winning pubs and restaurants. Make the most of the on-site games room and hire bikes to take in the glorious views on two wheels.
Beach View Holiday Park
Experience the breath-taking beauty of the Suffolk Coast at this fantastic modern holiday park right by the beach between the nature reserve at Minsmere and the seaside village of Thorpeness. As well as the traditional pitches for tents and caravans, at Beach View Holiday Park you can also opt to stay in one of the luxury sea view lodges complete with outdoor decking and all you could need for an easy-going self-catering holiday.
The large holiday apartments sleep up to four people in bright and airy rooms, tastefully decorated and within easy reach of the beach.
https://beachviewholidaypark.co.uk/
Wheatacre Hall Barns
Hidden away amongst the countryside of the
Waveney Valley, and surrounded by secret waterways and farmland,
Wheatacre Hall Barns provide a pastoral bolthole for anyone who wants to experience the bliss of rural living. The eight barns have been sympathetically converted to combine modern luxury with gorgeous original features. There are eight barns to choose from, housing between 2 and seven people, perfect for a romantic break or family get together.
Nearby there are many relaxing walks in the Waveney Valley and Norfolk & Suffolk Broads as well as the charming market town of Beccles. Wheatacre Hall also boasts a range of facilities on site, including a well appointed games room with ping pong and snooker, a hot tub for use around the clock and even a soft play barn for the under 5’s.
Five Acre Barn
Award-winning Five Acre Barn is the perfect place to gather with friends and family for an easy-going, luxury bed and breakfast experience. Centred around an artfully renovated 16th century barn and comprising five guest suites, the accommodation encompasses dramatic full height ceilings, steeped in natural light and a tasteful Scandi style.
Each suite has its own private seating area, overlooking five acres of garden and woodland. Resident wildlife is never far away, so be sure to look out for rabbits, pheasant and even Munjac deer. Breakfast offers an abundance of choice, with the full English, eggs cooked to your liking, waffles, pancakes and even smoked salmon on offer. Relax in the lounge area with the paper or a good book after a day well spent exploring the local countryside or unwind with a deep, relaxing bath using the range of complimentary Bramley bath products provided.
Valley Farmhouse B&B
Step back in time and stay in Tudor luxury at the
Valley Farmhouse B&B; an exclusive grade II, 15th century Suffolk Farmhouse set in four acres of rural wilderness in Westhall. The Tudor suite includes private use of the stately drawing room, a toasty wood burner, ensuite and six foot four poster bed. This atmospheric and romantic room has views over the courtyard and gardens.
There are other sumptuous rooms too, all with original features and luxurious finishing touches. The full English breakfast includes sausages produced on the farm from the rare breed old spot pigs as well as freshly collected free range eggs.
The Dolphin Inn
The Dolphin Inn is a hub of activity at the centre of the jolly seaside village of
Thorpeness. Well loved locally for its restaurant offering modern British cuisine using local ingredients, the B&B offers the chance for visitors to spend some time in this very special location.
The rooms are spacious and welcoming with lovely pine furniture and a filling breakfast included as standard. Explore the local area, transformed in 1910 by Stuart Ogilvie into a fantastical holiday village, and seek out the mysterious Peter Pan boating lake and fairytale ‘house in the clouds’.