Suffolk House

Restored by friends at Stutton on the River Stour in Suffolk, under 2 hours from London
Guests: 10       Wifi: available       Pets? Pets welcome (max. 3 dogs), fee applies

Suffolk House

more about Suffolk House

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about the property

Restored by friends, we're delighted to be the only cottage agency representing this fine country house in Suffolk with estuary access. It's the perfect location for a large family get-together.

  • Top 40 Cool Cottages for Spring 2022 (The Times)

'Blooming patches of lavender, sea-tinged breezes from the nearby estuary; when summer descends on this red-painted country-house cottage, it's pure bliss. Families will love it.'  - The Times

Suffolk House is a beautiful historic country house estate dating from approximately 1600, later 'Georgianised' and authentically conserved. It enjoys a fabulous position overlooking the mile-wide Stour estuary between Suffolk and Essex. It can comfortably sleep up to 10 - we consider this is some of the finest self-catering accommodation in the UK - perfect for a family get-together or special occasion. 

The house is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and within easy reach of many beautiful Suffolk and North Essex towns and villages, stately homes, beaches and countryside. Flatford Mill and the Dedham Vale (Constable Country) are just a few miles away. Alton Water Park with sailing, windsurfing and fishing as well as walking and cycle routes, is less than a mile away. There are many good restaurants nearby, and farmers' markets for delicious local produce.

The house is surrounded by beautiful gardens, from which there is direct access to the sea wall along the estuary, for walks to Holbrook Bay and beyond, with great birdwatching. There is a duck pond by the house and chickens (collect the eggs!) and a large summerhouse with a veranda in the extensive garden, as well as a paddock of alpacas!

grading

luxury
heritage
unique
green
price

latest review

We had a lovely time in the house; it was a freezing weekend but the fires were roaring and it was all very cosy. The sun never really came out but we managed a lovely walk on Saturday and then settle...

Sara P, 2023

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good to know

arrival at
17:00
depart by
10:00
guests
10
pets
pets welcome (max. 3 dogs)
bed layout
Master Double, Double, Double, Twin, Twin

facilities at Suffolk House

general
farm or rural location
open fire / woodburner
media & technology
television
wifi broadband internet
cleaning services
washing machine
infants
young children welcome
high chair
cot
stairgate

map - location

travel info

Nearest train station is 5 miles from the house and Ipswich station is 7 miles. It is approx 1 hour by train from London. Taxis are available at both, but slightly easier from Ipswich. It is about an hour and a half to two hours drive from London (provided you avoid the worst of the rush hour!)

in detail

Underfloor & central heating throughout. Wi-fi. Stair gates for both sets of stairs.

Ground Floor:

  • Entrance hall
  • Dining room – Suffolk brick floor, large farmhouse table, woodburner
  • Kitchen – new appliances: double oven, microwave, dishwasher, fridge freezer, Nespresso coffee machine
  • Sitting Room - with woodburner, TV, DVD player, Sky
  • Large conservatory with grape vine, dining table and chairs
  • Separate large second sitting room/study with open fire, TV with DVD, Sky
  • Hall area, large extra fridge and downstairs loo
  • Utility room - washing machine & drier, ironing board
  • Small study

First Floor:

  • Master bedroom – double half-tester bed, en-suite bathroom with bath and shower
  • Pretty twin bedroom with iron beds and patchwork quilts, ensuite shower room and loo
  • Twin bedroom with wooden ‘sleigh’ beds
  • Family bathroom with roll top bath
  • Double bedroom, walk-in wardrobe
  • Double bedroom - 4' wide antique painted bed
  • Shower room

Outside:

  • Large garden with wild flower meadow, herb garden, topiary
  • Paved area by house with benches, table and chairs
  • Small area by house enclosed for dogs
  • Large summerhouse with veranda
  • Plenty of parking
  • Chickens, ducks, alpacas (these are all enclosed in dog safe runs/paddocks)
  • Two ponds
  • Mile-wide river at bottom of garden.

local area

You will be in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and within easy reach of many beautiful Suffolk and North Essex towns and villages, stately homes, beaches and countryside. Flatford Mill and the Dedham Vale (Constable Country) are just a few miles away. Alton Water Park with sailing, windsurfing and fishing as well as walking and cycle routes, is less than a mile away.

There are many good restaurants nearby, and farmer’s markets for delicious local produce, including Jimmy's Farm (as seen on TV) within a couple of miles.

Village shops about a mile and a half away.

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customer reviews for Suffolk House

We had a lovely time in the house; it was a freezing weekend but the fires were roaring and it was all very cosy. The sun never really came out but we managed a lovely walk on Saturday and then settled in at the local pub. The house was superb, loads of room and lots of time spent around the table. I cooked a roast on the Sunday and could have done with more oven space - perhaps an air fryer would help? I agree with another reviewer about the beds, most were absolutely fine but the half tester bed too short for a taller man. The bedding was excellent quality and appreciated by all. Plenty of spacious bathrooms too. Would love to return in the summer!

- Sara P,
2023

The Suffolk House was was wonderful. The pictures are true - it is that good. Furnishings to match a 1600 property but in 2022 we need bigger and softer beds please

- Tim C,
2022

Our stay at Suffolk House was truly memorable. Our excitement at seeing the property when we first arrived remained with us for our four day stay. The house was probably the best holiday property any of us had ever stayed in. We felt we had full access to the house and its wonderful facilities as well as the gardens, which are just extraordinary. We enjoyed the additional bonus of beautiful sunny weather and excellent local walks along the estuary. Some of our party jokingly referred to the length of their beds feeling that they might have been designed for earlier generations who were not quite as tall as the current generation. All in all a great holiday and one we would be very interested in replicating at a future date. Many thanks and best wishes, Brian McNamara.

- Brian M,
2022

A delightful, commodious house with the most spectacular grounds imaginable, and walks down to the estuary of the River Stour.

- James hulme ,
2022

Such a wonderful stay with everything we could possibly have needed, which is really saying something as two families with children aged 13 to 1. A beautiful, well-equipped house and generous space to roam. The estuary is wonderful by day and night, walking, fishing, swimming.

- Alexandra H,
2022

We had a wonderful time and a glorious 10 spring days at Markwells House in March 2022, exactly a year after our intended visit was delayed by Covid. The house is spectacular, although writing this having just arrived home, I realise how much I appreciate a standard staircase and some flat floors! The house is well equipped, warm, full of places to be together or have some 'me' time, and the situation on the estuary is gorgeous. Being able to have such interesting walks to explore the area, starting directly from the house was such a bonus, and we also enjoyed exploring further afield, without the need to go far away to find beautiful countryside and villages. Big thumbs up from us! Dinah

- Dinah bourne ,
2022

We had the best holiday! The house and the gardens are so beautiful. My whole family got together for the first time since Covid and it was th perfect place to catch up, eat big meals and go for walks. I can’t recommend it enough,

- James Y,
2021

A really beautiful house that perfectly suited our family gathering. The house was clean and very comfortable and the grounds were wonderful. We loved the proximity to the estuary - particularly beautiful in the autumn sunshine.

- Judith white ,
2021

What a wonderful stay we had in Suffolk House. It’s a stunning property set in beautiful grounds with its own small duck pond and an Alpaca enclosure. A lovely walk along the Stour estuary is literally at the bottom of the magnificent gardens. Thanks must go to the very friendly gardener and groundskeepers who do a fantastic job of maintaining the private gardens and the housekeeper who does a great job of cleaning and maintaining what is a huge house. It was a proper treat to stay here and we hope to be back sometime.

- Linda E,
2021

Beautiful house and wonderful gardens-perfect for our 50th wedding anniversary celebration with three generations of the family. We loved the animals, conservatory where we all ate together, and pavilion for drinks and games.

- Sue F,
2021

We had an incredible stay for our wedding - everyone there was so accommodating and lovely, and made sure we had everything we needed. The house is done to a beautiful standard, and the grounds are completely stunning. We couldnt have found a more stunning location for the day, and the pictures are going to be glorious!

- Isabella N,
2021

We loved our stay. What a lovely house in an unrivalled and glorious setting, and we got perfect weather thrown in as a bonus. It was a treat just to be there and appreciate the thought and detail which have gone into the garden and the house. The result reflects the work, and it was much appreciated by us all. Thank you very much! I have two questions : Who is the picture of the man on the white dog by which is in the main bedroom over the fireplace? In the upper meadow, do you add seed annually or is it able to self seed enough at this stage. I was v impressed with the extent of the Yellow Rattle and wondered how long it has been there. If you are able to answer these then that is just the perfect cap to a lovely few days in the East Anglia I have known and loved for over 60 years. Jane Figgis

- Jane F,
2021

We absolutely loved our stay. This was our first trip out of London after the most recent lockdown and the entire visit felt like a dream. Our 16 month old daughter loved the baby swing near the river, the chickens and alpacas, and playing hide and seek among the bushes. The adults loved everything! This is a perfect country house. As others have said there is hardly a need to plan anything to do as being at the house is such a pleasure you never want to leave. We are already looking at dates to return. Thanks to UTT for a great stay.

- Katherine B,
2021

Wonderful stay - spacious accommodation set in stunning gardens. Loved every minute of our stay!

- Davy D,
2021

This is such a lovely old house with modern comforts such as underfloor heating and modern showers. The rooms are spacious and comfortably furnished, and we especially liked the abundance of books, paintings and antique objects or curiosities. The gardens are lovely and beautifully maintained. The view from the house, both front and back, are spectacular. We felt a generosity of spirit on the part of the owner which we much appreciated.

- Mrs c D,
2021

Beautiful house and gardens, well set up for a 2 year old and a 6 year old. Special thanks to the housekeeper, who took the trouble to phone us up to confirm our requests. Just be careful not to trespass into the neighbour's garden, with its enticing swing...

- Margaret C,
2020

We loved the property and grounds, very special. The space and amount of rooms felt like real luxury and such a comfy homely feel to the house makes you feel like you have been there for ages. The furnishings really nice and had to be dragged out of bathroom.

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2020

We had another fantastic break and cannot praise the beautiful house and gardens enough. The house is spotless and extremely comfortable and the garden was even more beautiful this time. Enjoyed a couple of great games of croquet on the lawn. Lots of lovely places to visit within easy distance. Looking forward to another visit in the not too distant future. Margaret

-
2020

Such a beautiful house and gardens; it was perfect for our family catch up. Thanks

- Sarah M,
2020

This is one of the best places we have ever stayed, anywhere - we couldn't have wished for a more perfect family escape after months locked down in the city. There were 6 of us ranging from 21 to 81 but it would be wonderful for guests of any age. The house is beautiful and comfortable, and the grounds are astonishing. We loved the views, the trees, the estuary walks, the summer house, the lawn games, the stars at night and most of all the animals. There are quirky alpacas with their different faces and haircuts (they'd just been clipped), ducks straight out of a children's picture book, chickens who supplied us with lots of eggs, and Henry the friendly cat. We were also lucky enough to see the other cat Lizzie's kittens in the barn at just a few hours old (thank you Mark). There was so much to see and enjoy we didn't feel like going anywhere else - 4 days of utter happiness. Thank you!

- Roz C,
2020

Recently returned from long weekend and still Marvelling at how fantastic it was. It totally exceeded our expectations. The house is superbly equipped to a high standard, we needed for nothing. The grounds gave the children a degree of freedom that was quite rare these days. Only criticism is that beds could not really accommodate 10 adults. Look forward to booking another stay.

- Margaret Y,
2020

Fabulous house and amazing gardens. Far exceeded our expectations. A great place for a family celebration.

- Karen B,
2019

We have just returned from our second stay at Markwell's & couldn't recommend it more! Beautiful, historical house set in stunning grounds - the perfect place for peace & tranquility. We enjoyed lazy sunny days in the garden, lunch al fresco, visiting the alpacas, playing hide & seek amongst the topiary on the perfectly landscaped lawn! I would imagine it would be just as wonderful during the winter months, with roaring fires & lots of nooks and crannies to curl up with a good book. We felt very welcome here and are already planning our next visit. A truly magical place.

- Karen S,
2019

We had a wonderful long weekend at Markwells (June 2019), with three generations of our family. There was something for everyone, and we all loved the garden, especially the grandchildren, who spent the whole weekend outdoors wandering around the garden barefoot, trampolining, feeding the alpacas, etc, and occasionally being forced to play cricket. It's clear that great care has been taken to ensure the house has absolutely everything that anyone could need. Many thanks to Pat and everyone involved in making this such an special place.

- Michael R,
2019

Markwells is a wonderful house in a beautiful setting. Our stay was a long weekend to celebrate a 70th and a 12th birthday and it was perfect. The house is well equipped, warm (this is November!) with so much room for all. The book collection is first rate for the quieter moments - though there weren't many of those! Time spent walking in the gardens, to the river wall, playing kings and castles, drinking sundowners on the pavilion, hide and seek around the topiary, bird watching, fireworks for the children, so much to enjoy and of course, bonding with the alpacas! Our weather was marvellous which meant we could spend so much time outside. the housekeeper Pat and gardener Mark were so helpful and made the stay even more welcoming. We would very much recommend Markwells for a big family gathering where you want to relax and just spend time together. We cancelled a pub lunch on Sunday just to stay around the house! We intend to rebook for the next big birthday! Thank you.

- Rosalind B,
2018

Very pleasant stay at this charming, warm and interesting house with lovely gardens (albeit the Public footpath through the garden is quite heavily used, so does impinge on privacy). The house was well kept, stocked with everything we needed and was a nice base for walks and trips out to Aldeburgh etc. Would recommend.

- Yvonne B,
2018

What an amazing weekend and an amazing house! We have just celebrated a special birthday with a party of 10, plus a dog. The house and the grounds were fantastic with lots of stunning walks and swimming in the river. We can't wait to come back. Thanks!

- Paula C,
2018

We had a wonderful 'family get together' in this beautiful house. Walking around the immaculate gardens & ground to the estuary was delightful. We had coffee & croissants on the pavilion enjoying the warm morning sun. The walk to the Church is not to be missed with the millennium stained glass window & colourful hassocks. We all enjoyed the books & artefacts within the house. One problem we had was with the stairs, we are all of a certain age - another hand rail would have been helpful. Overall a wonderful holiday home & environment.

- Linda K,
2018

Thank you so much for such a lovely weekend at this fabulous house! The house and gardens were great for entertaining the family for my Mum’s 70th birthday- the garden especially was fantastic for my 4 year old nephew who enjoyed the alpacas, the hens, Henry and taking to Griff! A great time was had by all and we will be be back next year to celebrate my Dad’s 70th birthday in October! My only comment for feedback would be an earlier check in and later check out- we would have gladly paid extra for both of these options! Thank you again!

- Daniellle R,
2018

As a group of 3 close friends and their families we have been renting a self-catering property for 10 + dog for the same long weekend for over 20 years now. So we know what works and what doesn't for our precious time away together and Markwells fits the bill. A gorgeous Suffolk pink historic farmhouse with comfortable, spacious accommodation. But the icing on the cake is the stunning grounds with topiary gardens leading out on to the Stour estuary. The perfect place to enjoy a beautiful walk along the beach or a barbecue by the summerhouse, even in winter. The house is well-maintained and clean. This was our third annual stay at Markwells and we are already planning a fourth.

- Mrs suzanne alexande... ,
2017

A true gem in the Suffolk countryside that takes your breath away when you drive through the gates. An adult's escape, a child' adventure, and a canine's delight. 'Highly recommended' simply does not do it justice.

- Richard F,
2017

Wow! This has to be the most wonderful place to stay. The gardens! The wildflower meadows! The chickens! The house was absolutely immaculate and very comfortable. We spent the week pretending to be terribly posh which was easy to do in such a beautiful house.

- Zoe millinchip ,
2017

The house, garden & estuary location are stunning & were a perfect venue for a big birthday weekend, although this was nowhere near long enough. The extra fridge & freezer opposite the downstairs cloakroom are a boon if you are bringing your own feast and if not, huge portions and a cheery welcome can be had at the Gardeners Arms. Fantastic & highly recommended.

- F m B,
2017

Very stylish designed, high end property in an interesting part of the world. Recommended

- David H,
2017

An amazing place to stay, fantastic location, a unique experience - particularly loved the blue eggs and the alpacas!

- Dawn rushen ,
2017

This was the perfect place to celebrate our silver wedding anniversary with family and friends. I have stayed in many holiday cottages over the years, but this one is by far the best! Such a beautiful house set in even more spectacular gardens. All our guests were very impressed with the house. Thank you so much for making our wedding anniversary so very special! Ineke and Mark Swallow.xxx

- Mrs i swallow ,
2017

Markwells House has been perfect for Christmas, it is beautiful and set in wonderful grounds, The house is been incredibly well restored and furnished, with ample space for a family group, including a special red room which we kept as a quiet room, it is warm and has good fires, there is a great selection of books. There are lots of good walks in the area (OS 197), and particularly down to the marshes, where we watched the sun rise, whilst listening to curlews, we were also able to look at the night sky as no light pollution. We had really good games as there is so much space - hide and seek, sardines, jumping on the trampoline, and the children loved collecting any eggs. Anyone would love to stay in this wonderful place, it's very special, thank you!

- C bayley ,
2016

New Markwell's House is a gem of a building. The space is luxurious and leads to an easy lifestyle for larger groups.

- Natalie C,
2016

Surely there can't be a better house with gardens anywhere in the UK. The house and gardens are both absolutely stunning. K+T C September 2016

- Kevin chalmers ,
2016

Beautiful house in exquisite surroundings. Perfect for family parties and playing hide and seek but also very nurturing if you're looking for a more peaceful experience. We loved it!

- Stella maidment ,
2016

Just returned from a lovely relaxing long weekend with a group of friends. Beautiful house, stunning gardens, fab conservatory for evening dinners, and rain or shine was just a lovely spot - we will be back! Thanks very much :o) Maria PS Worth noting that Sainsbury's also deliver to the house and if there's a few of you would recommend doing that

- Maria R,
2016

We had the most wonderful weekend at Markwells House - the house was fantastic and the gardens and location were stunning! The perfect place for a lovely relaxing weekend with friends - we are already planning a return trip!

- Amy K,
2016

we booked here for a Jauary break. The photos do not do this gorgeous house justice. We ran around like children on arrival, exploring all the many rooms and nooks! The garden is just amazing and we had hoped to come back in summer but unfortunatly won't be able to. We'll definitly be back to markwells though! We went on a few easy walks in the area and it's also worth noting that Tesco deliver here. we were able to get a taxi from the station so it's not essential to drive at all.Thank you!

- Helen S,
2016

Absolutely beautiful house and gardens - and in a lovely spot- we didn't need to leave! So comfortable and interesting. The children loved all the spaces to play and the ducks and chickens. We will definitely be back!

- Sally B,
2016

This house is just amazing. By the end of the week, the children and dogs were completely free range, enjoying all the space! The house itself has everything you need, including a spare sitting room if you need to "escape" for a little while. It was really warm and cosy, despite how big it is. (Useful tip, you can get supermarket deliveries here, which is handy when staying for a week). Highly recommended to anybody looking for somewhere to holiday!

- Hayley grice ,
2015

So wonderful that we have booked to stay for two extra days, and have booked again for later in the season! The Bowdens 22 Sept 2015

-
2015

So wonderful that we have booked to stay for two extra days, and have booked again for later in the season! Thank you.

- David bowden ,
2015

What an idyllic setting, loved every minute. Thank you so much for making the house so welcoming. Ralf and Angela 13 Sept 2015

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2015

Thank you for a wonderful stay in this amazing house with Pride and Prejudice gardens! The conservatory was the perfect setting for my 40th birthday BBQ dinner. I will remember this forever! Yolande & friends 31 Aug 2015

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2015

The name caught our eye, but the place captured our hearts. The house is wonderfully welcoming and elegant, and the gardens sublime. Some of us – well, Olive the dog – explored every inch of the land, and coast, the rest of us would love to come back for a longer stay. Thank you for preserving such a treasure. The Markwell family 14 August 2015

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2015

A terrific week had by all. The boys found a 20cm long oyster and spent 7 days covered in mud. Henry the baby had his first icecream. All in all a huge success and we shall certainly be back. The Armstrong Family 7 Aug 2015

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2015

We’ve had a lovely time in this beautiful house. We’ve all enjoyed relaxing in the house and grounds, doing very little really! Good birdwatching along the sea wall and excellent cycling around Alton Water – great fun. We’d all like to come again! Vicky, Myra, Davy, Anna & Katharine 27 July 2015

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2015

Had a fantastic time this weekend. Really enjoyed exploring the gardens and surrounding areas. The house is amazing with lots of hidden places to explore. We’d love to come back with more family and use all the space! Caroline, Mark, Thomas & Elliot 6 July 2015

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2015