Book yourself a log cabin holiday in Suffolk to look forward to!

Early spring is the perfect time to book a week away - and what better than a log cabin holiday with hot tub in Suffolk!

Whether you’re looking to take your break now or later in the year, our luxurious log cabin holidays offer many benefits.  First and foremost our seven individually designed cabins to offer a home away from home but with finishing touches such as private hot tubs and coal effect fires to offer that extra bit of luxury. Windmill Lodges provide well equipped, warm, comfortable and spacious accommodation in a beautiful country setting overlooking a fishing lake. 

When you stay in one of our log cabins, holidays are truly flexible - the kitchens in all of our wooden lodges feature everything you need to cook yourself a fabulous meal, including a full size cooker, fridge and a dishwasher so you don’t have to wash up! We even provide a complimentary welcome pack including essential groceries and all linen, towels, tea towels and bathrobes - so less for you to pack.  If you’d prefer to eat out, then you won’t be disappointed, as holidays in Suffolk will give you access to a fine selection of pubs and restaurants.

Click here to enjoy a home from home holiday in Suffolk at one of Windmill Lodges' luxury log cabins with hot tub

Holidays in Suffolk - Towns to Explore

Whatever the weather Suffolk offers a number of gems for you to explore providing enjoyable days out whether holidaying as a family, couple or a group of friends.

The ancient market town of Bury St. Edmunds is steeped in history.  As well as giving you the opportunity to walk through the grand stone gateway to the ruined abbey, you can also visit St. Edmundsbury Cathedral offering 1,000 years of worship and pilgrimage. 

This breathtaking cathedral was originally built to house the remains of Edmund, King of the East Angles who died at the hands of the Danes in 1869. St James Church was later built within the confines of the abbey and eventually became a cathedral in 1914.  Many people visiting the church, regardless of if they are religious or not, take the opportunity to light a prayer candle.  If you are interested in visiting the Cathedral you may want to time your holiday in Suffolk with Candlemas or ‘The Presentation of Christ in the Temple’ which takes place on 2nd February and marks a significant Christian festival.

If it’s heritage you’re seeking then look no further than the Theatre Royal, the sole surviving Regency Playhouse in the UK.  This truly wonderful theatre has been fully restored to its original 1819 glory and offers insight into the history of English theatre.  As well as offering guided tours, workshops and an impressive library archive, the theatre includes a full programme of live productions throughout the year.

The Theatre Royal’s owners are no other than Greene King, the UK’s largest independent brewer since 1799 and whom still reside in the centre of Bury St. Edmunds town.  Visit the brewery for a guided tour which offers a great insight into the history of brewing.  You’ll also get to visit the brew house where cask ales such as Greene King IPA and Abbot Ale are produced.  As well as the infamous brewery, Bury St. Edmunds is home to the smallest pub in Britain, The Nutshell where you can quite literally spread your arms and touch one side of the pub to the other.

While on holiday in Suffolk, the village of Thorpeness, built at the turn of the last century is also well worth a visit.  Originally a small fishing village rumoured to be a route for smugglers into East Anglia,  is awash with Tudor and Jacobean architecture thanks to Glencairn Stuart Ogilvie who developed this area into a fantasy holiday village for his friends and family back in 1910.  Possibly his most ingenious achievement was the ‘House in the clouds’ - the village’s wooden clad water tower made to look like a small house on top of a five-storey tower.

Thorpeness also has a 65 acre boating lake loosely themed on Peter Pan where traditionally painted rowing boats are available to hire.  This has been a popular location for both residents and tourists for over eighty years.  The boating lake is also the location for regular events hosted throughout the year.

Holidays in Suffolk - Get Out for a Stomp!

A break in Suffolk wouldn’t be complete without a good old stomp around the countryside, with the winter months offering possibly one of the best times to go walking.  Wrap up for the weather and you’ll be sure to lift your spirits and blow away the cobwebs. 

With its stunning scenery and magnificent coastline Suffolk offers the perfect place for walking.  Some of the County's best places to walk include Orford Ness, voted amongst the top 10 walks in the whole of the UK.  The National Trust also vote this now nature reserve walk as best for history based on it spanning a once top-secret military testing site, which still bears signs of its darker past.

If a coastal or beach walking is more appealing you’ll be spoilt for choice with beautiful villages such as Aldeburgh, a famous sailing resort, Southwold, a lovely seaside town with a pier, fishing boats and brightly painted beach huts or Dunwich which boasts a wide stretch of pebble beach.

A walk of truly outstanding natural beauty can be found at Dedham Vale, more commonly referred to as ‘Constable Country’ after the famous painter John Constable.  Walk along the banks of the River Stour which elegantly straddles the Essex Suffolk border and see John Constable’s father’s watermill, known as Flatford mill; the same watermill depicted in one of his most famous of paintings.  There is also a public footpath which runs between Flatford and East Bergholt with a distance of about 1½ miles.  

Holidays in Suffolk - Enjoy Fish and Chips, A La Carte Dining or a Cosy Pub Meal!

Despite its often poor reputation, English food is something us Brits wouldn’t be without even when we’re abroad!  There’s something about a roast dinner on a Sunday, sausages and mash with lashings of gravy and good old fish and chips by the sea that’s so hearty and comforting particularly in the winter months. 

If you’re looking for an intimate meal or merely a la carte dining then head for Woodbridge, Framlingham or Orford.  The Waterfront Café in Woodbridge is set in a 300 year old granary and has an idyllic location overlooking the banks of the River Deben.  The welcoming atmosphere of the Galley with its fabulous menu and wine list to match is another popular place to eat, as is the Regatta in Aldeburgh which was mentioned by Nigel Slater, celebrity chef and writer for The Observer and praised in the Michelin Guide. Orford also offers two wonderful fine dining restaurants; The Crown and Castle and Butley Oysterage which has its own smoke house!

If traditional pub grub’s more your thing there are plenty to choose from; or a friendly pub with a rustic atmosphere and excellent beer and food visit the Kirtling Red Lion in West Suffolk.  For cosying up next to roaring open fires try the Jolly Sailor in Orford or the Middleton Bell serving home cooked and locally sourced food in an attractive and inviting atmosphere - the hub of this pretty little village.  Finally the 16th century Brewers Arms in Rattlesden offers brunch, lunch and dinner in a peaceful location not far from Stowmarket.

Finally, no coastal holiday in Suffolk would be complete without fish and chips.  After experiencing the peace and tranquillity of Dunwich’s coastal lowland heath, sandy cliffs and beaches rich in wildlife, you’ll be sure to have built up an appetite so why not pay a visit to Flora’s Tea Rooms voted amongst some of the top seaside fish and chips you’ll ever taste? Named after the shipwrecked barge whose timbers built the original tea room back in 1987, this wooden shack sits on the shingle beach of what was once East Anglia’s capital before most of it was swallowed by the sea in the 14th century.  Fresh fish comes from Lowestoft and better still can be washed down with BYO wine or beer!

Click here to book your log cabin holidays with Windmill Lodges

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Holiday Accommodation in Suffolk with Windmill Lodges - Reasons to Visit this Beautiful County

Holiday Accommodation Suffolk With Windmill Lodges - Reasons to Visit This Beautiful County!

When you are deciding on your holiday accommodation, Suffolk is a natural choice. Windmill Lodges have wonderful log cabin holiday accommodation with hot tub, in the heart of its rural countryside. Our seven luxury cabins are located in Saxted, about 15 miles from the pretty market town of Woodbridge which is an ideal base to explore this beautiful unspoilt county.

With more people taking breaks in the UK, all year round, holiday accommodation in Suffolk has never been so popular but our log cabins offer something just that little bit more unusual.

Each cabin comes with a coal effect fire and under floor heating keeping you snug and cosy in winter after long walks in the fresh air. For summer breaks patio doors lead out to garden furniture for al fresco dining and BBQ’s. This makes Windmill Lodges the ideal all year round holiday destination.

We leave you a complimentary welcome pack (which includes milk, eggs, tea coffee, sugar sachets and wine) to get your holiday off to the right start. Our wooden lodges also boast a very well equipped kitchen with cooker, fridge, dishwasher and microwave, all perfect for rustling up a feast from the gorgeous local produce on offer in the area. All towels and bed linens, including tea towels, are provided which makes packing for your holiday much less stressful. We even supply bathrobes for you!

What really makes our holiday in Suffolk special are our private outdoor hot tubs for each log cabin. These are perfect to relax in at the end the day and soak up the wonderful views and sunsets that the big blue skies of Suffolk have to offer.

Click here to visit Suffolk on a luxury log cabin holiday with Windmill Lodges

There is So Much To Do Here!

Suffolk is all about the great outdoors whether it’s the country or the coast and long walks are an essential part of the visit.

Rendlesham and Tunstall Forests close to Woodbridge and Wickham Market are excellent for walking, cycling, horse riding and bird spotting. Rendlesham Forest was the scene of the UK’s most significant UFO sighting in 1980 and there is a walking trail dedicated to that along with other marked paths for walkers with lots of wildlife to discover.

Needham Lake just south of the market town of Needham Market is a nature reserve and picnic area based along the River Gipping. You can fish the lake with a permit and the walk takes about half an hour. After all that activity you can settle down with a picnic for lunch and enjoy the view or take a short drive into Needham Market itself for a meal in one of it’s many pubs.

With its elegantl gardens and maze Somerleyton Hall near Lowestoft is a one of the country's most beautiful stately homes and a fantastic example of Tudor-Jacobean architecture. Home to the Crossley family since the middle of the 19th century, the hall and gardens are open to the public and provide a wonderful and relaxing day out strolling around this magnificent setting.

Of course there’s also the Suffolk coast with picturesque seaside towns like Southwold and Aldeburgh with its world-renowned fish and chips, close by to Windmill Lodges.

One of these seaside towns is Walberswick, which is a little jewel along the coast and is much smaller than the better-known seaside resorts nearby. Part of the Suffolk coasts area of outstanding natural beauty, Walberswick is popular with tourists and locals alike for a day on the beach, a walk along the marshlands or a meal in one of it’s tearooms or pubs. Locally caught fish is also available to buy and take back for a superb supper at your lodge. No visit to Walberswick would be complete without a spot of crabbing off the little bridge with bacon for bait. Every year a crabbing competition is held in the town to raise money for charity.

The Weather is Pretty Good - Even in Winter!

Suffolk is consistently one of the driest parts of the UK making it perfect for breaks all year round. The annual rainfall in Suffolk is one of the lowest in Britain, often half that experienced on the South Coast of England and only one fifth of the rainfall in Devon and Cornwall.

Suffolk has a superb record of sunshine and benefits from two more hours of sun a week than the national average. On top of this the heat of the sun in Suffolk isn’t so intense as other inland parts of the UK. Cool coastal winds coming off the sea mean the climate is warm and dry but much more comfortable.

The sheltered location of Suffolk also means it avoids high winds and heavy snowfall so even in autumn and the depths of winter it is a great choice for a short or weekend break.

Suffolk is Easy To Get To

The Suffolk countryside and Windmill Lodges at Saxted are easily accessed by the A14 from the Midlands and the Home Counties, through the market town of Bury St Edmunds and then onto the A1120. From London and the south it is just a short drive up the A12 to Ipswich, then onto the A14 and the A1120 again.

UK short breaks and summer holidays are now so popular and easier to organise and pack for, especially if you have a young family. It’s simple to just pack your car and go rather than waiting endlessly at airports and suffering delays and hold ups. 

The Kids Will Love it!

There is so much for families with children to do in Suffolk. Of course there are the beaches and seaside towns to amuse the kids but Suffolk has some other hidden treasures on offer too.

Open on Sundays and Bank Holidays from May to September the Mid Suffolk Light Railway at Brockford has a full sized collection of steam trains and rolling stock, plus a museum and various special events and exhibitions throughout the summer.

The Oasis Camel Centre near Halesworth is open every day from the end of March to the beginning of November. Camels are not an animal you’d normally associate with Suffolk, which makes this animal park so unusual and fun. As well as an opportunity to have a ride on the camel you can take a walk with the llamas and meet the donkeys, alpacas, goats, pigs, rabbits, guinea pigs and ferrets!
Southwold is the perfect place for families with children of all ages, with its beaches, seaside amusements and the pier, but for something a little different there is the Southwold Maize Maze. Open all week from July to the end of September when the maize is growing at it’s highest this puzzle will suit all the family. Set in the middle of the beautiful Reydon marshes on the outskirts of Southwold there is plenty to amuse the children once you’ve cracked the mystery of the maze. They have a secure play area for small children and pedal cars, go-karts and tractors for older kids.

Suffolk is a Romantic Holiday Destination

Suffolk is often described as Britain’s best-kept secret. With it’s beautiful beaches, pretty villages, seaside towns and fabulous local food and restaurants it is a wonderful place for a romantic break for two.
Suffolk is all about its beautiful countryside and coast and both are within easy reach of Windmill Lodges for long, lazy romantic walks at any time of the year. In summer you could even go for a swim as six of Suffolk’s beaches in Felixstowe, Southwold and Lowestoft have all been classed with an "excellent" rating for their bathing water quality by The Good Beach Guide.

After all that walking and swimming Suffolk is great for finding something tasty and local to eat which makes it ideal for food lovers.

As Windmill Lodges are self-catering you will want to bring back regional food and wine for a romantic cosy evening together by the fire.

Local farmers markets are great for sourcing food from Suffolk and finding unusual ingredients. Farmers Markets take place all over the county in Woodbridge, Snape, Halesworth, Aldeburgh and Easton Farm Park.

Selling game, meat and poultry E W Revetts butchers in Wickham Market is a must visit when you are self catering. Famous for their sausages, Revetts have won awards for their produce. They use only locally sourced meat and also sell local cheeses, wines, home baked bread and cakes.

Adnams is probably Suffolk’s most famous export but it’s not just beer they produce. The Adnams shops in Southwold and Woodbridge have a fine selection of wines and spirits along with speciality foods and kitchen equipment.

Adnams also have restaurants and pubs that serve fantastic food in Southwold and the surrounding area too. All these can be found on their website but they range from the formal and elegant dining of The Swan and The Crown to a more relaxed bar meal at The Lord Nelson or The Sole Bay, Adnams first ever public house.

In fact Southwold is a food lovers heaven and a must for any romantic break with walks on the beach, a stroll through the town to shop in the boutiques and art galleries finishing off with a trip to the bakers and specialist delicatessens for olives and local cheeses.

No romantic break would be complete without a meal out. Suffolk has many great restaurants in Woodbridge and Ipswich but close by to Windmill Lodges are two warm and friendly pubs that also serve terrific food.

The Cretingham Bell pub dates from 1545 and is situated only a few miles from Woodbridge. It has a lovely romantic atmosphere with three inglenook fireplaces, beamed ceilings and wood floors. It stocks local beers and cider and has a home cooked menu with a traditional roast on Sundays.

In the nearby village of Framsden is The Dobermann Inn, very much a traditional country pub with locals propping up the bar and swapping stories. Ideal for just a drink of the excellent beer or for a home cooked hearty meal, this pub is tucked away among the twisting lanes of the Suffolk countryside. 

The Countryside is Stunning!

East Anglia has the reputation of being flat but although the landscape isn’t the most undulating in the country it is anything but boring. There’s a true sense of space in Suffolk and room to move and explore the beautiful landscape with over 5,000km of footpaths marked for public use.

From marshlands, farmlands, outstanding areas of natural beauty and the famous Suffolk coastline the countryside has something to offer everyone over all four seasons of the year.

Spring sees Captain’s Wood Sudbourne, between Snape and Orford, burst into a riot of blues and purples with the annual bluebells that carpet the woodland.

Summer is time to head to the coast. Suffolk’s coast and heaths are a designated area of outstanding natural beauty stretching from Lowestoft, the UK’s most easterly point, down to the River Stour.

Much of Suffolk is rural farmland with stunning yellow fields of rapeseed being a lasting image of autumn in the county. This can be seen to the south of Suffolk around the Dedham Vale area, which is another area of outstanding natural beauty.

Finally in winter, a much forgotten part of the Suffolk countryside, The Brecks, come into its own. Lying on the Norfolk and Suffolk border, the Brecks heathland with its striking silver birch and pine trees, is ideal for walking, horse riding and bird watching.

Click here to view our holiday lets with hot tub in Suffolk - and book Windmill Lodges for your UK holiday.

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Self Catering Holidays Suffolk - Great for a Spring Break!

Now the chaos of Christmas is over, self catering holidays Suffolk could be the spring break you need to recover from the festivities.  Self-catering accommodation offers something for everyone; whether you are organising a family a holiday, are a couple looking for a romantic hideaway or a group of friends getting together for a long weekend. 

Windmill Lodges holiday lets could offer the perfect solution for that great spring break you’ve been waiting for.  With seven individually designed and well equipped log cabins with hot tub, located in a rural setting you’ll be sure of a holiday break to remember.  Self catering holidays Suffolk are plentiful but having been awarded 4 and 5 stars from the English Tourism Council, Windmill Lodges offers a country retreat which guarantees that extra bit of luxury.

Located in Saxtead Green near Framlingham and close to the market town of Woodbridge, the river Deben provides the perfect backdrop for leisurely river walks and sailing, while also offering a fabulous selection of pubs and restaurants.  In addition to luxurious accommodation, Windmill Lodges also offers a well-stocked fishing lake which is exclusive to residents and a heated swimming pool which opens in Easter.

Click here to find out more about out accommodation and to book your self-catering spring break with Windmill Lodges

Why Choose a Self Catering Holiday?
Holidays in the UK are often disregarded due to the fear of bad weather but the benefits such as convenience, cost effectiveness and the wonderful scenery provided here in the UK are not always considered.  Jumping in the car with your family, your partner or a group of friends with a suitcase, a few of your home comforts, couldn’t be easier.  There is no need to worry about whether you’ve remembered the passports, the tickets and if you’ve packed anything you shouldn’t have in your hand luggage!  Just sit back relax and leave all the stress behind - after all isn’t that what holidays are for?

A self catering holiday in the UK may not be for everyone but it does offer that extra bit of flexibility.  Think of the extra time you will have to relax and enjoy your holiday, especially those thinking of taking a short break - where half of that time could be spent waiting around in airports, checking in luggage and troublesome transfers once you arrive at your destination.  Similarly hotel breaks can always seem like a great option but stop and consider the downsides; most hotels stop serving breakfast at around 10am so bang goes your lie in!  Similarly if you’re eating your evening meal at the hotel, you could be limited to one of two sittings - who wants to be restricted by timings when they’re on holiday?

When it comes to self catering holidays, Suffolk offers something for everyone.  A great selection of pubs and restaurants set in quaint country villages and surrounded by fabulous countryside ready to explore regardless of the time of year.  You’ll also have access to Suffolk’s infamous coastline which includes Southwold, Blythburgh, Thorpeness, Aldeburgh and Dunwich.

For the food lovers amongst you, self catering offers the perfect opportunity to indulge your culinary flair by purchasing some of the fine local produce from one of the counties many delis.  Why not take the opportunity to cook that special recipe you’ve been dying to try out?  Some of the best delis include Emmetts of Peasenhall, Leo’s Deli, Lawsons Delicatessen and the Suffolk Food Hall whose butcher was voted best in Suffolk in 2008.  A visit to one of these delis will also allow you to stock up on some lavish accompaniments to your stay, such as fine wine, cheese and chocolates.

Why Stay in a Log Cabin?
Spring is a particularly lovely time to stay in one of our luxury log cabins.  After a tiring day exploring the sites of Suffolk why not cosy up in front of the coal effect fire or relax in the private hot tub featured in all seven of our cabins?  Our log cabins are equipped and furnished to a particularly high standard with leather sofas, wooden floors, flat screen TV’s, DVD and stereo - we even provide free Wifi for the duration of your stay.

Our log cabins offer a spacious open plan living area which extends onto a private veranda overlooking our stunning fishing lake.  The rural location of Windmill Lodges offers a unique holiday experience and the chance of a lifetime to get close to nature.

Why Holiday in Suffolk?
Suffolk is located in close proximity to Essex, Cambridge and Norfolk, so it is also convenient for those travelling from London.  Due to Suffolk’s location in the South East of England, it offers a more favourable climate, with lower average rainfall and higher temperatures than many other parts of the UK.

Regardless of the time of year you visit, there’s always plenty to keep you occupied in Suffolk.  We’ve previously mentioned the wonderful coastline offering both sand and pebble beaches, pretty fishing villages and lighthouses but that’s not all Suffolk is about.  Suffolk is steeped in history, clearly depicted by its many museums, including the National Horseracing Museum in Newmarket, The Beccles and District Museum which relives the town’s history of making watches and clocks; for social and military history visit the Felixstowe museum and there’s also the Long Shop Museum which reflects on two decades of industrial innovation.  Framlingham Castle, Orford Castle and Sutton Hoo are also within easy reach.

For families why not try Pleasurewood Hills Theme Park near Lowestoft for adrenaline rush rollercoasters and log flumes and some more leisurely rides suitable for all the family?  And for those with adventurous children looking for something a bit different, look to Anglia Indoor Karting in Ipswich or Suffolk Leisure Park which offers a wealth of activities including a climbing wall, snowboarding, tobogganing and a golf range.

Why Book a Spring Holiday?
What better time to explore the Suffolk countryside than in spring? It might be cold and gloomy outside now but it won’t be long until the daffodils and crocus are in full bloom.  Whilst there’s still likely to be a chill in the air, particularly in the evening, you may be lucky enough to capture some of the spring sunshine we’ve become accustomed to over the last few years. 

As well as taking advantage of cheaper prices at this time of year, the popular tourist attractions are likely to be less crowded.  Consider visiting the RSPB Minsmere Bird Sanctuary near the beautiful coastal village of Dunwich - a must for bird watchers or the famous Jimmy’s Farm renowned for its rare breed pigs, nature trail and woodland walks.

After a long winter there’s nothing better than wrapping up warm and getting outside to breath in the fresh air.  The trees are green again, the grass is lush and the first of the spring lambs can be seen skipping around at Easton Farm Park; a great opportunity for the children to see these beautiful animals up close (they may even get the chance to feed them) Easton Farm Park is also home to the special events so the children can also get familiar with other spring animals including baby chicks, kid goats and bunny rabbits.

Whatever you decide, Self catering holidays in Suffolk offer endless opportunity.

Click here to view Windmill Lodges' family friendly self catering holiday lets in Suffolk

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Romantic Short Breaks - The Benefits of a Short Break Away

Windmill Lodges offers romantic short breaks for couples, including weekend breaks, five day breaks and week-long breaks in beautiful log cabin holiday accommodation in the heart of the Suffolk countryside. Our exclusive development of seven log cabins are attractively arranged around a secluded fishing lake in a tranquil rural setting near Framlingham and Woodbridge UK. Our log cabin holidays provide the perfect backdrop for romantic short breaks as each cabin has its own private hot tub, cosy coal effect log fire, en-suite bathroom and fully-equipped kitchen to ensure a cosy and comfortable stay. And there is a lovely indoor swimming pool on site, which is free for guests to use (available from Easter to October).


A holiday for two offers the perfect chance to unwind and reconnect in idyllic surroundings. Take a dreamy, leisurely stroll in the countryside, cosy up together in-front of the fire, or enjoy an intimate meal for two. Our Chaffinch lodge (sleeping 2) is ideal for a romantic holiday and comes with a luxury four poster bed. What better way to rekindle feelings of love than in four or five star luxury?

Romantic short breaks away are perfect for so many different reasons. They can help to renew the spark in your relationship, re-connect as a couple and give you the chance to relax and recharge your batteries. 


Bring Romance Back into You Relationship

When it gets busy at work, or you are rushed off your feet at home, it can be hard to spend quality time together. Sometimes things get so time-pushed that even talking is limited to a few words in the evening. However, short romantic breaks can help to re-light the fire in your relationship, as they provide that much needed quality couple time. On a log cabin holiday, it  is just you and your partner enjoying each other’s company in the peaceful surroundings of rural Suffolk.

What could be more charming than a log cabin holiday? Lie back in the hot tub looking up at the stars, cook up a candle-lit meal for two together, bathe in a two-ended en-suite bath (Chaffinch Lodge) and wake up in a romantic four-poster bed. In winter the two of you can snuggle up as warm as toast, in your  cosy cabin with underfloor heating and in summer, cook up a barbecue and dine al-fresco overlooking the picturesque and serene fishing lake. We provide linen, towels and bath robes and all our cabins have received awards for their high standards of excellence.

Windmill Lodges is are located in the heart of the Suffolk countryside, close to the beautiful Suffolk coastline. There are plenty of romantic things to do while staying with us - here are just a few examples.

Visit  Thorpeness and amble hand in hand along the quiet shores or rent a rowing boat for a pleasant afternoon on the Meare. This attractive mock Tudor and Jacobean village became an inspiration behind J M Barrie’s work Peter Pan and its 20th century Meare pays homage to this with Peter Pan themed islands. Thorpeness is a quiet village during the winter, with only 400 people living here, but it triples in size in the summer. Its main landmark is the bizarre house in the clouds, a former water tower, which is now holiday accommodation. 

At the nearby picturesque town of Aldeburgh, fishermen sell their fresh catches from the shingle beach. Stroll along the beautiful sea shore or visit some of the quaint and interesting independent shops and galleries. The ancient timber building Moot Hall, the town’s meeting place for more than 400 years, is where the museum is housed. One of Aldeburgh’s most famous residents is Benjamin Britten, who lived in The Red house, off Golf Lane, now home to the Britten-Pears Foundation, which opens to visitors in 2013.

The nearby Snape Maltings on the banks of the River Alde is best known for its concert and music hall and a world famous music and arts festival is held here in June. Snape Maltings is not all about music though. It is a popular place for couples as there are plenty of interesting shops and galleries to browse, as well as a tea room, a public house and country walks to go on. 

Further up the coast towards Southwold, is Walberswick, one of the most beautiful villages in Suffolk. It is surrounded by over a thousand acres of heath and marshland which has been designated an Area of Outstanding National Beauty (AONB).

Suffolk coastal towns and villages should be fairly quiet at this time of year, so just wrap up warm with woolly hats and scarves and enjoy some fun couple time together.

You Can Spend Time Away From the Children

Taking romantic short breaks away gives you valuable bonding time. While you enjoy a change of scenery and add more intimacy into your relationship, your break is a fun treat for the children too. They also have a holiday as they get to spend time with their friends, cousins or grand-parents!

Holidaying with the children is always something to look forward to as it means you create wonderful memories as a family. However, spending time alone together is just as important, as you can enjoy quality adult time together  and strengthen your loving bond.

Romantic short breaks also enable you to enjoy different activities without worrying whether the children will get bored. As it’s just the two of you, you don’t have to look for family-friendly attractions. You can instead go to a classical music concert, a theatre show, visit one of the many delicatessens in Framlingham, Aldeburgh and Southwold or browse unhurried through art galleries.  Aldeburgh for example has many art galleries along the high street such as Aldeburgh Contemporary Arts, which includes work from artists such as Paul Evans, Derek Chambers and Robert Greenhalf. Others well worth a visit include the Thompsons Gallery, which specialises in contemporary British art and The Strand Gallery which features paintings, prints, sculptures as well as furniture, lighting and jewellery.

If you are taking a stroll in the ancient market town of Woodbridge, the town’s Art Club’s gallery near the Tide Mill is always a draw for tourists and you can often come away with a bargain which will serve as a memory of your trip. Southwold has several art galleries including the Buckingham Art Gallery - a contemporary place on the High Street with furniture, sculptures, paintings and glass works. After browsing their collections you can stop in for tea at the coffee shop; the entrance can be found underneath the galleries.

In the evening, why not go for a long, romantic meal with wine in Woodbridge or Framlingham?  The Waterfront Café in Woodbridge is a great place for intimate dining and is set in a 300 year old granary overlooking the River Deben. The Galley is another popular place to eat, with fine food, great wine list and welcoming atmosphere - you can even book online through their website. The Regatta in Aldeburgh has been praised in the Michelin Guide and was mentioned by food writer for The Observer Nigel Slater. He also flagged up The Crown and Castle and Butley Oysterage - which has its own smoke houses - as places to dine in Orford. 

Short Breaks Recharge Your Batteries!

We all get stressed from busy work and family lives and it does us good to get away and have a break. Romantic short breaks gives you the chance to unwind, let the stresses and strains wash away and simply enjoy each other’s company. It means you can come back to your friends, work and family with renewed energy and enthusiasm.

Many people find a short break much less stressful than a full week off work - as there is less to organise at home before going away and less backlog to return to when you come home. Also short breaks in the UK avoid lengthy travel times, so it is a great way to quickly de-stress without all the worry of changing money, arranging flights, getting to and from the airport and so on.

One of the ways you can recharge your batteries is to book a massage or spa treatment. There are many salons in and around the area including Simply Beautiful, Market Hill, Woodbridge and The Retreat, Well Close Square, Framlingham. For an ultimate spa experience, however, Ufford Park Hotel near Woodbridge, has spa treatment rooms and a hydro pool so you can really unwind. You can book a day spas or you can book one of their special offer treatments which can be found on their website.

Take a stroll in the countryside in and around the Suffolk coastal region. You may decide on a beach walk, or don wellies and go for a walk in the country. This can be followed by a visit to one of the delicatessens or farmers markets to buy local produce, so you can cook up a romantic dinner and eat by candle-light back at your lodge. Grange Farm shop in Woodbridge or Jimmy’s Farm in Ipswich are two local farm shops worth visiting.

If you don't  feel you can cook up a tasty treat, why not learn some cookery skills together? Aldeburgh Cookery School is based in a Victorian house on the high street in Aldeburgh, a building which once the town’s police station. It offers lunch, weekend or week long cookery courses and you can test out your skills when you get home.

If you want a really relaxing weekend, you don’t even have to venture out of the front door of the cabin. Instead you can have valuable quiet time together with a scented bubble bath or soothe away aching muscles in the hot tub. After a long bathe, slop out in-front of the TV, watching a romantic DVD or curl up with a good book.

Click here to view Windmill Lodges' wooden lodges with hot tub to surprise your partner with a romantic break away

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Log Cabin Holidays – Get Back to Nature!

For those of us who jump at the chance to get back in touch with nature, log cabin holidays are something we all dream about. Great for couples, weekend breaks with friends, or week long family getaways, country breaks in a wooden cabin appeal to all age groups. Windmill Lodges is an exclusive development of luxury log cabins, in a secluded rural location right in the heart of Suffolk. All seven lodges are set around a half acre private catch and release fishing lake well stocked with carp and tench and we also have a heated swimming pool for our guests to enjoy during the summer months (May – October).

Windmill Lodges is based in the village of Saxstead just two miles from the historic market town of Framlingham and 15 miles from Woodbridge on the River Deben. Our log cabin holiday accommodation is close to Suffolk’s stunning coastline as well as acres of designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). So we are well placed for nature lovers and all those who enjoy spending time in the English countryside!


Luxurious Accommodation with Nature on Your Doorstep!

Windmill Lodges offer high quality, luxury self-catering accommodation – with all of the comforts of a Suffolk cottage holiday. You also get the added bonus that nature is right on your doorstep! What's more, each of our luxury log cabins has its own private outdoor hot tub with jets and blowers, so you can relax and take in beautiful Suffolk countryside while you soothe any worries away.

Inside each of our holiday lodges you will find high spec, 4 or 5 star self catering accommodation with everything you will need for a relaxing, comfortable break. For example the kitchens are fully equipped with a dishwasher, microwave, full size-fridge and cooker. TV’s are in all the bedrooms offering the full range of free digital channels and a video and DVD player are provided. Also for your entertainment, all cabins have CD players and a radio. And although time-out in the country can mean switching off your mobile phone and laptop to leave day to day concerns behind, free Wifi is available in every cabin, should you wish to use it.

Log cabin holidays offer the chance to really be at one with nature. Scenic views and wooden surrounds will make your stay with us feel truly relaxing. They are ideally suited to the outdoors type, offering plenty of fresh air and vitalising walks. Each lodge is equipped for dining outside too, with a barbecue and patio furniture provided. So in the summer months, you can cook up an evening meal and dine al-fresco, whilst listening to the sounds of nature.

Wildlife abounds around our log cabins. It is normal to see ducks, rabbits and a wide range of birds and if you are lucky, you might get a glimpse of the odd muntjac deer.

Try Your Hand at Fishing!

Fishing is one of the most popular sports in England, with more than 3 million people regularly casting their lines into lakes and rivers all over the country. It is also extremely relaxing and a lovely way to spend time in nature, gently reflecting and relaxing. Our cabins overlook a pretty fishing lake so you can enjoy the peace and quiet of this tranquil setting and try your luck catching carp and tench from 1.5 lb to 6 lbs.

Our lake is open all year round for the exclusive use of our guests, so you are guaranteed some undisturbed angling. Don’t worry either about loading up the car with fishing equipment before you come. At reception we have everything you will need for a day's fishing, including bait, hooks and floats. We also have fishing rods, landing nets and a beginner's guide book suitable for those who need some tips.

Suffolk is a Nature Lover's Paradise!

Log cabin holidays in Suffolk are ideal for those who enjoy a range of outdoor activities. For example, bird watching, sailing, horse-riding, golf and cycling are all on offer here at various locations throughout the county.

Bird Watching

The best place to go bird watching in Suffolk is at the RSPB site at Minsmere. Advocet, Nightingales and Mash Harrier are some of the birds that can be seen here, depending on the season. Events are held throughout the year including relaxed winter walks, when some of the best wildlife can be spotted. These walks are ideal for beginners or more experienced ornithologists and you warm up with a bowl of soup afterwards, bought from the visitor’s centre. Minsmere is for people of all ages. If you are holidaying with the family, in addition to guided walks, there is also the chance for fun hands-on activities for children such as face painting, nest building and pond-dipping.

Sailing

If you prefer water to land, Suffolk is a great place to visit for sailing activities. Viking Marinas in Ipswich gives you the chance to get away from it all and take in some sea air. They have a variety of fully-equipped sailing yachts and power boats for a day-out to remember. Days can be tailored to your needs or you can also pick one of their fixed price packages. They offer river trips and luxury sailing activities on the River Orwell or further afield.

Alton Water Sports Centre is open daily throughout the year, excluding Christmas Day, for members or day visitors. Here you can take part in any one of their activities including sailing, canoeing, rowing, windsurfing or paddle boarding. It is great for holiday activities or special events such as stag weekends.

Horse Riding

If riding is more your thing, take in the beauty of the Suffolk countryside by horseback by visiting one of the nearby riding stables. There are many of these nearby including Valley Farm Riding and Driving Centre Wickham Market, Woodbridge. This is suitable for people of all ages and abilities, including people with disabilities. All sorts of camps are run here such as junior cavalry, equestrian clinics and circus skills. Gym-Khana in Ufford, near Woodbridge, also offers horse riding lessons. These are available for those aged two years and upwards.

Golf
Golfing is great to do in Suffolk and means you can take in some beautiful scenery as you stroll from one hole to another. If you are a complete beginner, it is advisable to take lessons before you start because you will need to know how to hold the club correctly and master some of the techniques. Most clubs offer lessons for beginners; Seckford Golf Club and St Audry’s Golf Club are based in and around the Woodbridge area. Seckford Golf Club offers an introductory class for beginners, which is a day-long event including lunch. Audry’s Golf Club offers a chance to play nine holes for a limited fee and golfing here is suitable for all abilities.

Cycling

Cycling is also a great way to get out and about and explore the Suffolk countryside. Byways Bicycles are 12 miles from the site at Priory Farm, Priory Lane, Darsham, and offer bicycle hire for adults and juniors. Car parking is available on site and the staff here are happy to help you plan your route. Most of their bikes are suitable for off-road use.

Click here to view our self-catering wooden cabin holiday lets in the heart of the Suffolk countryside for a luxury week-long retreat or weekend break.

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Out Of Season Holidays in Suffolk - A time To Enjoy The Peaceful Suffolk Countryside

Winter is here and it is that time of year when people begin to think about getting away for a holiday or short break somewhere peaceful, relaxing and picturesque. And what better destination could there be, than a self catering log cabin holiday in Suffolk? Close to London and the Home Counties, holidays in Suffolk are near enough to be just a comfortable drive away - and yet at the same time, they provide a delightful change of scenery and some quite beautiful coastal countryside.

For log cabin holidays, Windmill Lodges in Suffolk offers 7 luxuriously appointed traditional style log cabins, which have been thoughtfully positioned around a delightful catch and release fishing lake, deep in the beautiful Suffolk countryside. Each of our log cabins has been built and fitted out to 4 and 5 star standards as bestowed by the English Tourist Council and the quality of the development has also been recognised and rewarded by Tourism in Suffolk, as well as the Cyclists Welcome, Walkers Welcome and Families Welcome schemes.

Lodges are available in the full range of sizes, accommodating parties of up to 8. They come with modern fitted kitchens complete with a full size cooker, fridge and microwave oven and the kitchen drawers and cupboards are stocked with everything you will need. The bathrooms are fully fitted with baths with shower attachments and come with fluffy towels and bathrobes, so you don’t have to worry about packing your own.

In the lounge area there is a wall mounted coal effect fire and throughout the log cabin there is under floor heating to keep your toes warm at night. Home entertainments include a flat screen TV with all the free to air satellite channels, a DVD player and a stereo.  In the bedroom you will find a luxurious 4-poster or a king size bed, depending on the lodge you choose.

Outside, on the veranda, which provides a wonderful view of the fishing lake, you’ll find seating and an outside dining table and away to one side and fenced off, for your privacy, your own luxurious hot tub under the stars! All in all, the perfect self catering holiday accommodation for an indulgent winter break!


Winter Holidays in Suffolk

Winter holidays in Suffolk can be a real tonic and just what the Doctor ordered to chase away those pre or post Christmas blues. The winter months are a joy here, and whilst it may be cold and even on occasion wet, with the right clothes and some sturdy boots, the fresh air and wide open spaces provide a relaxing break from the daily routine.

The countryside here in Suffolk really is breathtaking. It has been an inspiration to many a poet and artist and continues to capture the imagination and awe of photographers, writers, painters and sculptors to this day. Famous names in artistic history who have been inspired here include Betjeman, Blythe, Britten, Constable, Crabbe, Dickens, Gainsborough, Hambling, Rendell and Eric Arthur Blair, better known as George Orwell. More recently they have been joined by the likes of Bignell, Bullen, Crossley-Holland, Davies, James, Lund-Lack, Oxborrow, Pettersson, Pretty and Rumbles.

All of these artists and many more besides have been inspired by what they’ve seen and heard in the Suffolk countryside, on its heathlands and sandlings and you too, can tap into that feeling and experience the true wonder that the Brecks, the ancient woodlands, the valleys and the Suffolk coast have to offer. What better way to enjoy your holidays in Suffolk, than getting out into the countryside to see what you can see.

There are some particularly nice walks in the area, especially around the nature reserve at Orford Ness. This area of importance, being the
largest vegetated shingle spit in Europe. As such, it is an important breeding and stop off point for large numbers of wild birds. This ex-military testing site has been returned to the wild and it is interesting to see how many rare and fascinating species have reclaimed it.

Any walkers among your party will be in their element here. The Suffolk Coastal Path stretches from Felixstowe to Lowestoft and beyond in both directions and the Suffolk Sandlings Walk passes through Martlesham Heath, Woodbridge, Rendlesham Forest and Snape and both these routes have shorter loops, which are ideal for a pleasant afternoon’s stroll. There are some shorter walks following footpaths around Saxtead, Dennington and Framlingham and, if you happen to find yourself in Framligham, you must visit The Mere. This is a 33-acre lake and nature reserve, between Framlingham Castle and Framlingham College, its circular footpath presents you with some wonderful flora and fauna, regardless of the time of year.

Nature lovers will also enjoy a visit to the RSPB reserve at Minsmere. Here, you can watch the avocets and marsh harriers from discreet hides and listen out for the distinctive call of the bitterns. If you’re lucky, you may even spot one. (they are a bit shy).

So on your holidays in Suffolk you can go for long walks in nature and observe the local wild life but what else can you do?

While holidaying in Suffolk, you can shop in the local towns and villages. The local, ancient and picturesque market towns of Woodbridge and Framlingham offer all of the amenities and facilities you’d expect from small to medium sized towns with the added bonus, that there is a photo opportunity at every turn. Ancient buildings line the streets which themselves are full of local history. With a tide mill and a castle, these two jewels in Suffolk’s crown are filled with local attractions and places of historic interest and throughout the winter months, there is lots to see and loads going on.

The coastal towns of Southwold and Aldeburgh are also lovely to visit. Southwold is perhaps most famous for being the home of the Adnams Brewery Company. Renowned for their passion for producing fine, cask conditioned ales and bottled beers, which they have been doing since 1872, Adnams now produce fine quality Gin and Vodka too. Their products, including Broadside, Explorer and Lighthouse among others, are a staple of many of the pubs in East Anglia and you are virtually guaranteed to find them on tap, if you happen to pop in to one of our local public houses during your stay. Southwold is much more than just a brewers HQ, this beautiful seaside town has been an artist’s muse for centuries. The streets, shops and houses of the town are pretty, in the extreme and the coloured beach huts that line the shore are a postcard manufacturers dream.

Another Suffolk seaside town which you’ve got to see is Aldeburgh. Famed as the home of Aldeburgh music and the legacy of Benjamin Britten, it is a highly fashionable day trip destination and sees regular visits from Londoners, many of which have a holiday home on the Suffolk coast. As a result, the shops, the art galleries, antique emporia and restaurants, are second to none. Fishermen sell their daily catch from huts on the beach, so if you fancy fresh fish for tea, this is the place to come.

Another great joy of taking short holidays in Suffolk at this time of year, is the wonderful produce on offer here. Winter farmers markets occur throughout the region and they are some of the best in the country. For example, the Lavenham farmers market is held on the 4th Sunday of every month and over 30 traders come to the beautiful Lavenham village hall, bringing with them a fantastic range of high quality, local produce. Another farmers market of particular note is held at Alder Carr Farm in the village of Creeting St Mary. Here a large open courtyard is ringed with craft shops and their award-winning farm shop and delicatessen overflows with lovely local produce.

Other foodie days out include The Suffolk Food Hall - probably the largest and best known of Suffolk's farm shops. Started in 2005, this stunning food emporium showcases some of the finest food produced locally. In conjunction with a number of local specialist producers including Hamish Johnston cheeses, Crystal Waters the fishmonger, the Helena Doy bakery, Promotion wines and the Bourne Garden Centre, they provide a great day out for the whole family with quality, traceable, food alongside other local products.

Jimmy's Farm is another must see in the area. Just outside of Ipswich in the village of Wherstead, Jimmy runs his famous pig farm, which has been featured on countless TV shows. The farm is open daily and visitors are invited to come along and learn about farming techniques, food production and nature. There is a woodland trail and an animal paddock at the farm as well as an adventure playground for the kiddies. The farmers market here was recently included in the Guardian's list of Britain's most vibrant food markets.

If one day during your stay, you really don’t fancy cooking, you could always pop into Woodbridge and go on one of their food safaris. Woodbridge food safaris give you the opportunity to go behind-the-scenes at some of Suffolk’s best food and drink producers and gain hands-on experience in one of their fascinating workshops and the day is rounded off with a wonderful gourmet feast.

Enjoy the peace and tranquility of the countryside and enjoy a log cabin holiday in Suffolk with Windmill Lodges - click here to view our accommodation

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Enjoy a weekend break in our Luxury Log Cabins in Suffolk

Windmill lodges offers the ideal opportunity to take weekend breaks in Suffolk, in a snug log cabin. All our lodges are warm, luxuriously appointed and extremely comfortable and they are located deep in the heart of the peaceful and stunningly beautiful East Anglian countryside.

Here you can spend quality time with a loved one or with family or friends and while you’re here, if you decide to have a look around, you’ll discover what a truly lovely place Suffolk is, to come for a weekend break. Get here on Friday afternoon and over a lazy and indulgent weekend, you can recharge your batteries, go for a wander in the countryside (if you choose to) and above all relax. This will send you back to work the following week, fully recharged, revitalised and ready to face whatever the rest of the week has in store, with the added bonus that you’ll only be back at work a short while before the weekend rolls round again.

Reasons to enjoy your weekend break:

Lots of Peace and Quiet

Weekends off are not uncommon, many people work a five-day week and take the Saturday and Sunday to rest and recuperate but how much peace and quiet do you actually get? Familiar sights and sounds keep you from enjoying your downtime properly and having the neighbours pop in uninvited, doesn’t help either. At Windmill Lodges you get the opportunity to relax properly, to unwind in beautifully unfamiliar, attractive and peaceful surroundings and to actively enjoy your weekend, rather than endure it.

Located near to the old market towns of Woodbridge and Framlingham, Windmill Lodges is ideally placed to benefit from a quiet, rural country aspect whilst being close enough to town for those everyday essentials. Many couples and families come here to spend time alone together and leave the happier for it. They read books and play board games, go for long walks in the countryside and learn to enjoy each other’s company again.

Luxurious Accommodation

When you come to stay at Windmill Lodges for any length of time, whether you’re here to enjoy one of our quiet weekend breaks in Suffolk, whether you’ve come for a four day break or you’re here for a week or more, you will benefit from staying in one of our 4 or 5 star, award winning, luxury log cabins.

Each log cabin has been beautifully equipped with every attention paid to achieving the highest possible standards of luxury. In the kitchen you’ll find a full size cooker and fridge, a dishwasher and a microwave and you’ll find the cupboards amply stocked with all the kitchen utensils, cutlery, crockery and tea towels you’ll need, to be able to prepare and cook all your own meals. The modern bathrooms come complete with soft towels and fluffy bathrobes and to add to the feeling of luxurious warmth, each of the cabins is offered with a coal effect feature fireplace and under floor heating, to keep your feet nice and warm.

Each of our cabins comes with a colour TV, a CD player and radio in the lounge with video, and DVD as well as free WiFi and all the free to air, digital channels. There is also a colour television in each of the bedrooms so you can watch your favourite TV shows from the comfort of your four-poster bed or sumptuous king size bed.

The list of facilities does not end there though, outside you’ll find all the garden furniture you’ll need and a barbecue ready for use in season as well as your very own luxurious hot tub.

We pride ourselves on our attention to detail and as a result, each cabin has been awarded either a 4 or 5 star award from the English Tourism Council.

Plenty of Rest and Relaxation

Faced with the prospect of a couple of day’s complete and total rest and relaxation, there is nothing to stop you from staying in your cabin, kicking back and spending the time enjoying each other’s company. There are no clocks and no timetables, you can do as you like, when you like. This could involve a little mooch around town, a gentle stroll in the countryside, a barbecue or cosy meal in your cabin if you fancy it, the odd pub lunch here and there and a dip in the hot tub whenever the mood takes you.

You could even try your hand at fishing if you like. All of our luxury log cabins have been constructed around our own private catch and release fishing lake. It provides a wonderfully calm and peaceful focal point for our site but it can also be a lot of fun. We keep it well stocked with carp and tench, some of which weigh up to 6lb and you can hire and buy all the tackle you need for a fun day’s angling, from our main reception desk

Fun and Frolics for Everyone!

This time of year is always good fun in Suffolk and you never have to look too far for a festival or celebration of some kind.

Rekindle Love and Romance

Whatever you decide to do with your time away together, the important thing is that you are spending quality time together. In a rushed world that calls upon our time and energy on a daily basis, its nice to know that you can for a short time, stop the merry-go-round, get off and take a breather.

If all we do here at Windmill Lodges is give you the time and space to reconnect with one another and enjoy each other’s company, then we’ve done our job.

Go for long walks together, find a nice restaurant and go out for a romantic meal or better still, buy everything in and cook it yourselves. Dinner by candlelight followed by a moonlit soak in your very own hot tub, what could be more romantic than that?

Whether you are holiday as a family or as a couple, enjoy a long weekend break in a log cabin with hot tub at Windmill Lodges - click here to view our accommodation

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