Blackbirds Singing At Dusk

Blackbirds Singing At Dusk: Suffolk

With farmland to the front and the owner’s beautiful private nature reserve behind – this gorgeous home, part of a cluster of mill buildings, is in an idyllic spot.

Take a stroll through winding footpaths of the reserve that meander through meadows and forests of giant cedars and ancient oaks. In spring, you’ll see enchanting carpets of bluebells, primroses and daffodils, but whatever time of year you come, you’ll be treated to an array of wildlife, from chaffinches to woodpeckers. There are maps to find the footpaths going onwards to Snape Maltings, just over two miles away, and to the sea at Aldeburgh (or it’s seven minutes in the car). You can borrow some bikes too if you prefer to cycle.

You don’t have to go anywhere to get some fresh air, though. There’s a lovely old cobbled, sunny courtyard where clematis and wisteria clamber up the walls – it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the welcome hamper of breakfast goodies. There’s another patio area, too, with fragrant rambling roses – ideal for a glass of wine.

The home itself is a sympathetic conversion of a stable and grain store. We adore the character features inside, such as the traditional 17th Century Suffolk white brick flooring, wood-panelled walls and old oak floorboards. Part of the original manger has been incorporated into the wall dividing the kitchen and the living space area – a lovely touch. Open the stable doors here and listen to the blackbirds singing at dusk. Furnished with antiques, this cottage will appeal to couples and pet owners looking for a luxurious country bolthole.


Home truths:
*The nature reserve is shared with the other guests
*The welcome basket includes local bacon, sausages, eggs and bread – in season there are fresh herbs including mint, bay, lemon verbena and sage
*There's a mulberry bush in the grounds which guest are welcome to pick fruit from
*Please check with your host that the bikes are available before you arrive
*A cot and highchair are available upon request
*There are another two cottages available to book if you have a larger group
*A water bowl and treat per dog is provided
*London Liverpool Street station to Saxmundham station (change at Ipswich) is around one hour and fifty-one minutes
*There's off-road parking
*Norwich International Airport is just over 34 miles away