A regular feature in our round-ups of the best places to visit in Suffolk when staying at our Barns and Barges to rent, we thought that Ickworth House deserved a little more spotlight by way of its very own blog post. Built sometime between 1795 and 1829, the estate the house belongs to dates back 1467 when it was once the dwelling place of the Marquesses of Bristol. A masterpiece properly attributed to Frederick Hervey, the 4th Earl of Bristol and Bishop of Derry, Ickworth House was brought to life by esteemed Italian architect Antonio Asprucci after he was asked to design a classical villa in the Suffolk countryside.
As with many historic houses in Suffolk, the story of Ickworth House is anything but straightforward. Indeed, it was originally conceived as an art gallery to house all of the Earl’s impressive collection. The only hitch in this brilliant plan? All of the art he owned was seized by Napoleon. With nothing to hang on the walls, and with the Earl passing away in 1803, the house was to his successor to finish off.
Reasons to Stay at Woodfarm, Suffolk
We happen to think what we have on offer is pretty bloomin' good. However, we thought you might like a bunch of reasons to stay, other than we think you should!
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Brilliant beaches!
Suffolk has an incredible Heritage Coast, with great beaches, all in easy reach of us.
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Dogs stay FREE, and we don't just tolerate them, we welcome them! We've built our reputation on this, and we're proud of it!
at the barns
Pawesome, fully-enclosed two acre Pooch Paddock for your Dogs to go bonkers and make new friends in.
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Free Doggy treats, Dog bowls, and Dog towels. Our furry friends even get Woodfarm branded poop bag holders!
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Visit England Gold Awards coming out of our ears, as well as their coveted ROSE Award for Service Excellence.
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Well in excess of 1,000 Five Star Tripadvisor, Facebook & Google Reviews. Over 25% of our guests come back!
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Private Hot tubs with seven of our eight Barns and Cottages. The ultimate in relaxation, just because you're worth it.
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Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Yes, plural. Two AONB's on our doorstep! Suffolk Coast & Heaths, and Dedham Vale.
on the barges
Stunning river walks directly from your gangplank on either Barge! Wildlife and breathtaking scenery in abundance.
Far be it from us to channel the great Bill Bryson when it comes to writing blogs, but we thought it was high time we at least attempted to piece together a potted history of …
Much as our blog serves to recommend all of the best things to do in Suffolk when staying at our Barges or Barns for rent, we do also enjoy the occasional tangent. Whether it’s a …
Much as we like to shed light on all of the great things which have been taking place in Suffolk for many years, we’re also fond of shiny new things. Whether it’s a new music …