Owing to its geographical position, Suffolk embodies the beauty of a destination which is easy to access but benefits from uninterrupted peace and tranquillity.
Sat above Essex and with direct roads and train lines running from London as well as a plethora of other northern cities, Suffolk is the heart of traditional British countryside and offers visitors from near and far an immersive step into the quiet character of the county. Of course, while picture-perfect views are front and centre of the advertising for many local Suffolk attractions, what is often overlooked is the juxtaposition between the two sides of the county that you can enjoy.
Suffolk isn’t just accessible by road and rail, but also by boat. Its coastline is rich with small rivers and waterways which run into quaint towns, including the likes of Woodbridge, Felixstowe, and Southwold.
When booking your Suffolk cottage stay, choosing between countryside and coastline changes your experiences and views, as well as the nearby attractions you can enjoy. Keep reading for our pick of things to consider, try out, and add to your to-do list.
The Beauty of Suffolk’s Countryside
Suffolk remains one of the most popular countryside destinations owing to its unspoiled views and endless walks. Small chocolate box towns and villages, packed with corner shops and popular pubs, sit at the end of various walking trails and cycle paths, meaning that no day in the countryside is complete without a local cider or ale.
The cottages that span the Suffolk countryside include vast homes with their own grounds and gardens, right down to more contained properties that simply provide the comfort of a base from which to explore. Inland experiences to look out for include local farms, country houses and open public gardens, orchards, and more.
Top Coastal Cottages in Suffolk
The coastline of Suffolk is one of its most interesting features, particularly given its inlets and rivers. Woodbridge is one coastal destination worth adding to your list, owing to its proximity to the National Trust site Sutton Hoo, and to the local project that’s seeking to rebuild and launch a Viking-style ship. Southwold is just as much of an attraction with beautiful beaches (and our beach house ‘The Ark’ available to hire), while Thorpeness and nearby Aldeburgh are both great for families.
Much of the coastline falls under the Suffolk & Essex Coast & Heaths National Landscape, meaning it is protected and cared for as designated marshland, estuary, farmland and forest. Visitors to Suffolk can learn more about this coastline at the Rendlesham Forest Centre in Tangham.
Designing Your Next Getaway
With so many holiday cottages on offer, building your perfect itinerary and securing your ideal home from home in Suffolk couldn’t be easier. While choosing between countryside and coastline will inform your transport and local surroundings, Suffolk is well connected enough that you can plan daytrips between the two destinations and combine sea views with footpaths and orchards.
