Unexplored England - Places to Stay

West Stow Pods provides a unique glamping experience deep in the undiscovered splendor of Suffolk’s scenic countryside. The choices of accommodation on offer range from the cosy mega pods and rustic forest lodges among the trees, to the extra special ‘Pod Hollow’; a subterranean dwelling complete with quirky furnishings that would not be out of place in a fantasy Hobbit house.

Located on the edge of The Kings Forest, there is plenty to do nearby, including a range of walks for all levels of stamina, and the meditative Fullers Mill Gardens; a peaceful place to wander and take in the horticulture. This is truly a place to go back to nature and get away from it all, with the added bonus of all the home comforts you could need. Slow down, soak up the atmosphere and relax on the veranda with a glass of wine and a sky full of stars.

https://www.weststowpods.co.uk/

This Victorian townhouse has re-defined the boutique hotel experience with its fun and vibrant ambience and fabulously eclectic design. Each of The Northgate's ten uniquely styled rooms each boast stunning period features such as sash windows and original fireplaces, combined with modern luxurious elements such as oversized freestanding baths, sumptuous linen, marble tiles and decadent padded headboards.

The hotel’s restaurant is famous for its ‘Chef’s table’ experience which invites guests to take in the excitement of a busy kitchen, whist watching the chef and his team as they display their culinary prowess. If you feel like trying your hand at a new skill The Northgate are unique in their offering of a variety of bespoke experiences for guests. The ‘bar experience’ is a hands-on cocktail making class, with nibbles to enjoy as you shake up your very own beverages. The ‘gin experience’ takes you on a guided tour of the well loved spirit via guest distilleries. You can also have a go at flower arranging and cooking, all under the guidance of industry experts.

https://www.thenorthgate.com/

If you want to discover the quintessential English village, look no further than Long Melford, close to the river Stour and in what was once a prominent Suffolk Wool town; an area synonymous with weavers in the 15th Century. Today, discerning tourists can uncover intriguing antique shops, delightful galleries and cute tearooms.

The Black Lion Hotel offers visitors a modern twist on the traditional in this landmark 15th century Inn. Choose to stay in one of ten individually styled bedrooms, which are furnished with king-sized beds, Egyptian cotton linen and traditional bathrooms where you can soak the night away. Enjoy impeccable attention to detail and everything you need for a comfortable stay in a snug, luxury or family room. You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to dining; with breakfast, A la Carte and set lunch menus, as well as The Black Lion’s famous Sunday lunch.

https://www.theblacklionlongmelford.com/

An eco conscious adventurer should look no further than the cool designer lodges at Upthorpe Lodges, located in the stunning Suffolk countryside, just 30 minutes drive from Bury St Edmunds. Choose from four uniquely decorated lodges, each with its own private garden with south-facing sun deck and indulgent hot tub. Lodges come furnished and equipped to a high standard with king sized beds and Netflix as standard. What’s more, they are situated in a private and leafy location and encompass a bi-fold door design that brings the outside in.

Each lodge has been carefully designed to fulfill its eco- credentials; with solar panels on the roof, and cladding from sustainably sourced Cedar. A peaceful stay awaits all who unearth this gem of a destination.

https://upthorpelodges.co.uk/

Few people are aware of the very unique history of this elegant building that was previously a well-loved Tudor family home. There is evidence to suggest thatWest Stow Hall was built by Sir John Croftes, who was ‘Master of the horse to Mary Tudor’ herself- quite a find for visitors who want to uncover the hidden history of one of Suffolk’s grandest halls.

Now a beautiful setting for holiday cottages, West Stow Hall offers visitors the chance to stay in the spacious grounds in one of the cottages or bespoke studios in the extensive gardens. The grounds are attractive and full of little surprises and hidden details such as the lavender lined pathways and the orchard, as well as the wood burning stove and colourful Moroccan tiles in the studio.

If you choose to stay in ‘orchard cottage’ you’ll notice the exposed beams, a traditional Suffolk floor and can enjoy a spacious open-plan living and dining area. ‘Gardner’s cottage’ is a peaceful flint and stone building set within the old walled gardens of the Hall. It is south facing- perfect for BBQs, and is surrounded by fields of horses, a breathtaking sight.

https://www.weststowhall.com/

You’ll have to navigate carefully to find this fine Tudor house, set back ‘off the beaten track’ down a breathtaking avenue lined with Lime trees and past a breath-taking moat and two original bridges, Kentwell Hall Cottages are perfect for large groups who want a secluded getaway, with timber beams, nooks and crannies, antique furniture and extensive gardens.

There are multiple opportunities to find your slice of country life on the Kentwell Estate with a range of highly individual properties, tucked away amongst the majestic parklands. The Lodge Cottage is stylish and recently converted, sleeping up to four people. The Grooms Cottage is a simple and stylish place to stay, located in the stable yard. The Hall Barn is with its timber frame exudes rustic appeal and is surrounded by its own huge garden, a great place to shut yourself away from the busy world and enjoy a slower pace of life.

is a glorious national Trust site, which comprises many striking, individual elements. The Italianate Palace in the heart of the ancient deer park is quite a sight, and the formal gardens, pleasure gardens and woodlands all maintain a fascinating allure for curious visitors. Nestled away in many acres of the grounds are five characterful holiday cottages, each with their own story to tell.

Keepers Cottage and Carpenters Cottage, as the names suggest, once housed generations of gamekeepers and estate carpenters. Today they offer stylish privacy for guests at the heart of the working estate. Gardens House boasts a private garden haven with direct access to the surrounding parkland through a secret door in the high walls and the unforgettable ‘Roundhouse’ evokes the Ickworth Rotunda in miniature and was originally designed as a prestigious hunting lodge for guests attending estate shoots. The spacious three bedroom retreat is hidden away in a tranquil woodland glade near Fairy Lake- an unexpected and fantastical stay for intrepid travellers.

https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth/features/stay-in-a-holiday-cottage-at-ickworth