In the heart of Suffolk
Local Area
We're located in the pretty Suffolk village of Hemingstone. The beauty of our location is that you can do as much or as little as you desire - if you're looking to get out and about and explore by road or by foot, we've put together our top suggestions for some must-visit places in and around Suffolk.
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Woodbridge
Woodbridge is a pretty market town that sits along the River Deben. It'll take you around 25 minutes to get there, but it is more than worth the journey.
Southwold
Home to the famous Adnams Brewery, head to Southwold for a tour of their brewing and distillery plants, or to enjoy a walk along the beach. A quaint and pretty little seaside town.
Aldeburgh
The drive is around 40 minute, but a visit to Aldeburgh is worth the drive. Perfect open beaches for a nice long dog walk and some of the best seafood restaurants around.
Thorpeness
Thorpeness is a famous holiday village with a whimsical literary link. The picturesque ‘mere’ is vast- covering over 60,000 acres with various islands and inlets. The Meare comprises many little islands, all named by J.M Barrie, author of Peter Pan and visitors can take to one of the many little boats available to hire and drift between fairytale settings such as the pirate’s lair and Wendy’s house. You can’t miss the ‘house in the clouds’, an unusual water tower with a boarded house on top, appearing to float up into the sky.
Snape Maltings
Snape Maltings sits on the bank of the River Alde, surrounded by an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, just six miles from Aldeburgh. Visit their shop for dreamy interiors and homemade produce.
Ipswich
Ipswich is just under 20 minutes' drive away from Retreat East. With direct rail links from London, it's a great option if you're travelling to Retreat East by train.
Walking Routes
From the front door of your barn we are lucky to offer a selection of walking routes. Take a stroll over the fields into Coddenham, our local village. Buy supplies from the village store or enjoy a cup of tea and some home-baked cakes. Another route takes you around the pretty Shrubland Park. We have a walking route map for you to enjoy during your stay, simply ask for a copy from the front desk.
Our story
Retreat East occupies 35 acres of pristine Suffolk countryside previously a working 16th century farm. The site has recently been converted into a luxurious spa resort.
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