This impressive detached house, originally two Victorian cottages which have been extended, joined and updated, is ideal for large gatherings of family and friends, allowing different groups and generations to socialise or enjoy some peace and quiet in its large, flexible accommodation (it could suit two groups, separate but related, of six and four, for example). It is set in a fabulous area, on Walberswick’s quintessential village green and just a few metres from its long, sand-and-shingle beach. This Georgian village really is a hidden gem, unspoilt and quiet: the perfect place for a traditional bucket-and-spade holiday, and with a lovely selection of pubs, tea rooms, restaurants and boutique shops. Its nearby nature reserve, which follows the River Blyth estuary, covers more than 1,000 acres of mudflats, meadows and marsh. Home to otters, deer and a wide range of bird species, it offers many delightful walking trails through its reed beds and heaths. Just across the river, Southwold is the livelier of this pair of Suffolk seaside resorts, and has loads to do, from a tour of Adnams, the local brewery, to a stroll along the Edwardian pier with its quirky slot machines. For more days out, there is plenty to see in this interesting part of Suffolk. Atmospheric Dunwich is 6 miles – known as England’s ‘lost city’, it was once a thriving medieval port but now, due to coastal erosion, has a pebble beach, a large nature reserve and the ruins of a medieval friary. Drive 11 miles and try a guided tour and tasting at Valley Farm Vineyards, while for an unusual day out Camel Park Oasis, 15 miles, offers camel rides and llama walks.
The charming house is thoughtfully decorated throughout and still retains some original features such as exposed beams and fireplaces. It has two comfortable lounges, each with a TV and a wood burner, and one with a breakfast table and six chairs. A dual-aspect dining room, with doors to the gardens at front and back, has room for the whole group and captures both morning and evening sun. There are two kitchens, together encompassing a superb range of amenities, including two dishwashers and a coffee bar, while a utility room and garage house laundry facilities and storage space. On this floor there are also a fabulous wet room shower – accessed from the front patio for sandy feet straight off the beach – and a separate cloakroom. Steep stairs lead to the first floor, where you will find extensive accommodation ensuring a high degree of privacy, storage and comfort. The main king-size bedroom is dual-aspect and has a TV, and there is a second king-size bedroom that has a lockable interconnecting door to the twin bedroom (this bedroom has zip-and-link beds and can be made up as a king-size on request at the time of booking). In addition, there is a cosy double bedroom and two comfy singles. On this floor are also two shower rooms and a stylish bathroom, the latter of which can be made en-suite with the double bedroom, if required, by closing the pocket door in the corridor.
The enclosed, south-east-facing front garden has a pond enclosed by a fence, a lawn and garden furniture, offering a hidden oasis of calm – an ideal spot in which to sit out and enjoy the afternoon sun. The rear patio, with outdoor furniture and a BBQ, is a delightful area in which to enjoy al fresco meals.