Friday 2 December 2016

Why a Short Break in Suffolk is the Ideal Christmas Gift

christmas breaks in suffolk, christmas tree
Short of ideas on how to surprise your loved one this festive season? Inspired by the song ‘12 days of Christmas’, we thought we would bring you a dozen reasons why one of our luxury short breaks in Suffolk would make a superb gift this winter.

1.     Relaxation
Holidays are all about recharging the batteries, and what better way to do this than enjoy time out in one of our seven country log cabins? Each lodge has its very own private hot tub, which is the perfect way to relax and unwind during the coldest months of the year.

2.     Escapism
This East Anglian county is known for its unspoiled countryside, chocolate box villages and pretty coastline. Set in the heart of the Suffolk Coastal district, Windmill Lodges is a fantastic destination for a short romantic break, with plenty of places to explore whatever the weather.      

3.     Discovery
The county is filled with memorable locations inspired by fiction. This includes the ancient village of Lavenham, which sparked the idea for Harry Potter’s fictional birthplace, and the enchanting destination of Thorpeness, once regularly visited by the author of Peter Pan, J M Barrie.

4.     History
If you love exploring castles and old buildings, there are plenty of these within easy driving distance from our log cabins. Framlingham Castle and Orford Castle are popular attractions that are also open in winter (see the websites for opening times).

5.     Walks
What is more romantic than a coastal walk? Whether you would prefer a stroll along the beautiful, deserted sandy beaches of Walberswick or want to enjoy the magic of Aldeburgh’s sea shore, it’s not hard to find a favourite beach along Suffolk’s 45 miles of coastline.

6.     Food
Not far from Windmill Lodges are some excellent farmers’ markets and farm shops where you can stock up on local produce. You’ll stumble across many more within driving distance of our exclusive holiday lodges, including Jimmy’s Farm and Suffolk Food Hall, both in Wherstead, Ipswich.

7.     Drink
Whether your favourite tipple is a glass of wine or a pint of beer, Suffolk has something for you. Why not visit Shawsgate Vineyard, Framlingham? Alternatively, you can sample the local brew after enjoying a tour of Greene King brewery in Bury St Edmunds or Adnams Brewery in Southwold.

8.     Exercise
From country sports, such as horse riding and rifle shooting, to adrenaline fuelled pursuits like high rope climbing and paintballing, there are some fantastic activities to take part in that will make your luxury short breaks in Suffolk even more memorable.

9.     Shopping
Whether you want to visit the Christmas markets, browse antique stalls or explore the independent stores at Woodbridge, winter in the ideal shopping season as splashing out becomes even more delightful under the glow of captivating Christmas lights.

10. Culture
From art galleries to museums, music and theatre, the colder months are a great time to immerse yourself in the county’s culture. The world-renowned Snape Maltings Concert Hall has a year-round programme of events including jazz, folk and classical music concerts. Meanwhile, Christchurch Mansion houses paintings by Suffolk’s most famous artists, John Constable and Thomas Gainsborough. 

11. Dining
You’ll be spoiled for choice with the wide range of restaurants Suffolk has to offer, from fine dining to pub grub and international cuisine. If you are visiting us at Christmas time, The Old Mill House in Saxtead is serving food on Christmas Day but book early to avoid disappointment!

12. Luxury
Windmill Lodges’ log cabins have everything you need to enjoy a cosy winter stay. From coal effect fires to en-suite bathrooms, fully-equipped kitchens, leather sofas and sumptuous bedrooms. Our five star Kingfisher Lodge even has its own infra-red sauna, which is the perfect treat for an indulgent long weekend away.