Things To Do

The Bucket List

The Bucket List: Planning your perfect Suffolk break

Imagine a hassle-free, stress-free, tailor-made concierge service, that lets you unwind without any fuss. For FREE! Yup, you just imagined The Bucket List. For years we’ve toiled to bring you a ton of the very …

Farmstay experience at our nearby farms

A taste of farmstay living in the Heart of Suffolk

So many Woodfarm guests live in towns and cities, so the romantic notion of a farmstay is more about enjoying the open countryside, fresh air, and peace and quiet, rather than getting down and dirty, …

What to do ideas for Winter in Suffolk

Winter in Suffolk has never been this exciting

From festive light trails to haunted pubs, we’ve got a load of ideas for you in a series of blog posts near this one, written specifically for enjoying Suffolk this winter.   What We’ll Cover: …

Bridge Farm Barns in Monks Eleigh

Bridge Farm Barns in Monks Eleigh

This blog post introduces you to a video that I shot to introduce you to “Bridge Farm Barns in Monks Eleigh”. It’s also part of our You Ask, We Answer series, where we answer tons …

Needham Lake: Great Dog Walk near Woodfarm

Needham Lake: A Great Dog Walk near Woodfarm

This blog post introduces you to a video that I shot to show you Needham Lake: A great Dog walk near Woodfarm . It’s also part of our You Ask, We Answer series, where we …

Dedham... What’s it like?

Dedham… What’s it like?

This blog post introduces you to a video that I shot to answer the common question of “Dedham… What’s it like?” It’s also part of our You Ask, We Answer series, where we answer tonnes …

Earsham Street Deli @ Snape Maltings

Earsham Street Deli @ Snape Maltings

This blog post introduces you to a video that I shot to answer the common question of “Where can we get great food & drink?”. It’s part of our series of ‘You Ask, We Answer’ …

What is there to do in the area?

What is there to do in the area?

This blog post introduces you to a video that I shot to answer the common question of “What is there to do in the area??”. It’s part of our series of ‘You Ask, We Answer’ …

Fishing near our holiday cottages in Suffolk

Fishing near our Holiday Cottages in Suffolk

Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to indulge in their favourite pastime near our holiday cottages in Suffolk. Whether you are a seasoned angler or just starting out, the beautiful Suffolk countryside offers a …

Paddleboarding in Suffolk

Where to go paddle boarding in Suffolk

Photo courtesy of CSG SUP Gear Ltd Paddle boarding is a great spring or summer activity in Suffolk – or during the colder seasons too, if you’re experienced!  If you’re thinking about booking a break …

See the autumn red deer rut in Suffolk

The red deer rut is a one-of-a-kind spectacle of nature and marks the height of autumn in the county of Suffolk! For everything you need to know about how to see the red deer rut …

Aldeburgh Food & Drink Festival

The Aldeburgh Food & Drink Festival 2020

Coming to Suffolk for the famous Aldenurgh Food & Drink Festival? We don’t blame you! This event is one of the most popular foodie events in East Anglia – but there are a few changes …

Lambing weekends at Kentwell Hall

Spring is on the way! That means warmer weather (hopefully!), yummy seasonal food in the local pubs and restaurants and a sudden abundance of daffodils. For us, in the heart of the Suffolk countryside, it …

Abbey Gardens ruins

Days Out in Suffolk to put in the Diary for 2020

Whether you live in Suffolk and are looking for a special day out, or you’re planning a staycation in one of the UK’s most beautiful counties, there is plenty to do in Suffolk. Lying in …

Where to see wildlife in Suffolk

Thanks to Suffolk’s varied landscape, a huge range of wild animals call the county home, including rare birds, mysterious marine animals and even snakes! However, you don’t have to go aimlessly traipsing around in the …

Hog & Hen Farm Shop

Our pick of the best farm shops in Suffolk

If you’re heading to Suffolk for a foodie holiday, we’ll let you in on a secret: we have some of the best farm shops around. Suffolk and the surrounding counties of Norfolk, Cambridgeshire and Essex …

Adnams Brewery Tour

If you’ve heard about Suffolk’s rich and varied food and drink offerings, you’ve probably heard of Adnams Southwold (very often shortened to ‘Adnams’), one of the county’s much-loved, historic breweries. © Copyright Julian Osley and …

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Where to play golf in Suffolk

If your golf game is feeling up to par (sorry, I had to) then Suffolk is the perfect place to bring your clubs for a golfing holiday. Take a few hours by yourself, with your …

House and Garden, Snape Maltings

Antiques and homeware shops in Suffolk

There’s nothing like discovering a one-off piece of furniture or decorative piece for your home or garden! Luckily, there are plenty of Aladdin’s caves within easy reach of Woodfarm Barns and Barges. We like to …

Yachts on the River Deben

Newbourne dog walking trail with views galore

For scenic views of the river and countryside and a delicious pub meal, head to the small-but-charming village of Newbourne with your dog and venture on this easy circular walking trail around the nearby parishes. …

The Fox Inn, Newbourne

Newbourne dog walk – Riverscapes and countryside vistas

If you’re an outsider, you might not have heard of the charming Suffolk village of Newbourne. But there are many reasons to visit, including a beautiful medium-length dog walking trail. Just a half hour’s drive …

Explore Suffolk in a canoe

Our dog-friendly, Suffolk-based, 19th century Dutch sailing barges may be static on their respective rivers, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t take to the water to see Suffolk!   The River Alde – © …

Dog treats at The Grundisburgh Dog

The Grundisburgh Dog near Woodfarm Barges & Barns

The Grundisburgh Dog just happens to be a Dog-Friendly Pub & Restaurant, smack bang in the middle of the ‘Woodfarm Barge & Barn Triangle’. What’s not to love? Yep, draw a line from Woodfarm Barns …

the table woodbridge

Woodfarm Barges’ favourite Woodbridge restaurants

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as stimulating your tastebuds with some delicious local cuisine while on holiday – and Woodbridge in Suffolk has some great options. Visit this small, quintessentially English town, which is situated …

What’s on in Suffolk in spring 2019?

Spring is an exciting time in Suffolk. A simple drive through the countryside will reveal a landscape bursting with nature and wildlife. From blossoming flora to newborn animals, there’s an air of vitality in every …

Dog friendly holiday cottage postcard

Holiday Postcards from Suffolk – with stamps!

Holiday Postcards are as quintessentially English as it gets, and we’ve been giving them away to Woodfarm guests for years. But now we’ve got some new ones and we’ve decided to go the extra mile …

Dog Friendly review

Dog-Friendly review from a unique perspective

This Dog-Friendly Holiday review from a unique perspective took us by surprise when it came in the other day. We like to think that our quirky accommodation at Woodfarm Barns & Barges are universally appealing, …

Happy Dogs hang out at Woodfarm

Happy Dogs hang out at Woodfarm

Happy dogs is what we like. That’s why we try to ensure they have the best holidays, as well as the humans they drag along with them. We’re not rocket scientists; we just know that …

Dog-friendly Pubs & Restaurants in Suffolk

Dog-friendly Pubs & Restaurants in Suffolk

Suffolk Pubs that are dog friendly If you’re looking for a holiday in Suffolk to visit with your four-legged friend, you’ll be pleased to know that we have so many superb, dog-friendly pubs and restaurants …

deben leisure centre

Deben Leisure Centre for staying active

The Deben Leisure Centre is a superb gymming and swimming facility in Woodbridge and available for our guests to use whilst they are staying aboard our barges (or barns) The Deben Leisure Centre is a …

barge at snape

Snape Maltings Open Barge Day

Snape Maltings is a cultural Mecca in Suffolk and we are holding an  ‘Open Barge’ day on Sunday 19th August aboard our recently relocated Dutch Holiday Barge to give you all the opportunity to come …

The front of Snape Maltings, Aldeburgh

Snape Maltings and Woodfarm Barges!

We are absolutely over the moon to bring you some incredible news about Onderneming. As of 21st July 2018 she will be moored at the iconic Snape Maltings! Location, Location, Location! Pin Mill has been …

ITV & Woodfarm Barges (I’m on the telly!)

So there I was aboard Onderneming last week and ITV turned up! I was happily minding my own business when reporters Kate Prout and Becky Jago turned up and said hi! They were filming a …

Dog Friendly Magazine and Woodfarm

Dog Friendly Magazine and Woodfarm

Dog Friendly Magazine is arguably one of the industry leaders, and a respected journal amongst dog lovers. So we were delighted to have such an amazing 6-page feature in June 2018! We met one of …

Suffolk Farmhouse Cheeses producing amazing milk

Suffolk Farmhouse Cheeses ‘Milking’ Technology

Suffolk Farmhouse Cheeses are based just around the corner from Woodfarm Central and our guests  have been enjoying their wares since we opened. But now it’s even more exciting! Jason and Katharine Salisbury are based …

The Barn.co at Friday Street

The Barn.co at Friday Street

The-Barn.co at Friday Street is an amazing barn full of unique furniture, gifts and art, along the Suffolk Coast. And you can grab a 10% Discount as a Woodfarm Guest too! Friday Street farm shop …

Spotlight on The Fire Station Woodbridge

The Firestation Woodbridge are a fabulous Suffolk business, roasting coffee and providing visitors with a great coffee shop in which to try their wares. In our latest ‘interview’, General Manager Jacqui Grimsey gives us an …

The Bury St Edmunds Christmas Market

Bury St Edmunds Christmas Market

Bury St Edmunds Christmas Market is just around the corner, literally. Both in miles and also in time as I write! The Bury St Edmunds Christmas Market is a real barometer for me to tell …

Bury St Edmunds Theatre Royal and Matthew Abercrombie

A look behind the scenes at Bury St Edmunds Theatre Royal

Bury St Edmunds Theatre Royal is the subject of the first in a series of ‘Spotlight Interviews’ with people running or managing businesses around Suffolk. Having spent years developing the Woodfarm brand, it has enabled …

Photography and Suffolk in perfect harmony

Great photography requires real skills, and landscape photographer Gill Moon has them in spades! When I met Gill, it was as the previous owner of one of our beautiful Dutch Barges ‘Twee Gebroeders‘. It was …

River Cruise from our Barges or Barns

Fancy taking a Suffolk River Cruise when you’re staying at our Barges or Barns? Then the Jahan from Deben Cruises is a perfect way to spend a couple of hours This River Cruise operates from …

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Bird Watching in Suffolk from our Barges

Bird Watching is wonderful form of wildlife observation and we are so fortunate to be able to offer guests a choice of two barges to stay aboard, with a twitchers heaven right from the deck! …

cinema

Woodbridge Cinema – a unique experience

The Woodbridge Cinema, ‘The Riverside’ is a unique combination of movies and food, just a five-minute walk from Twee Gebroeders, our romantic Holiday Barge by the Tidemill in Woodbridge, and only a 25-minute drive from …

bridge

Walking along the River Orwell

The River Orwell is home to a number of sailing clubs, some stunning scenery and one of our Dutch Sailing Barges, Onderneming (Enterprise in English) The Butt & Oyster is one of the best known …

Shotley Peninsula on the doorstep of Onderneming

Nestled between the rivers Stour and Orwell in Suffolk, the Shotley Peninsula is a beautiful out-spur of villages and farmland that has been designated a Special Protection Area.  Shotley Peninsula is named after the village …

Clare Castle near your Suffolk holiday cottage

Dive into history in the Castles of Suffolk

With its rich farming lands and its proximity to the continent, our area has needed the Castles of Suffolk to watch over and protect us for many centuries. Therefore the Castles of Suffolk afford us …

the table woodbridge

Wonderful food at the Table Woodbridge

The Table Woodbridge is a tremendously popular brasserie restaurant located in one of the most beautiful and historic market towns in our area.  Whilst enjoying the river Deben on Twee Gebroeders, one of our Dutch …

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The Suffolk Ski Centre near our barges

The mighty peaks of the mountains of Suffolk loom like gods over the country. The ever white snow covered tops of the Suffolk ski centre calling skiers from all around the world to compete on …

Suffolk Coast and Heaths AONB

Suffolk Coast and Heaths AONB

Come and explore the stunning Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty on your Woodfarm Barge break. There are beautiful places to visit all around the world. However, we don’t have to fly …

jimmy

Jimmy’s Farm in the heart of Suffolk

Jimmy’s Farm became a household name when the BBC made a documentary about Jimmy Doherty’s farm near Ipswich in Suffolk.  It’s easy to see why Jimmy’s Farm has proven to be such a popular destination …

friendly dog

Explore Dog Friendly Suffolk from one of our Barges

Dog Friendly Suffolk has so much to offer and either of our Holiday Cottage Barges are the perfect base to explore Ok, we admit it, we’re a little biased. But we really love Dog Friendly …

flatford cottage

Dedham Vale from your Suffolk Holiday Cottage Barge

Dedham Vale on the Essex-Suffolk border has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and it’s easy to see why.  We think Dedham Vale is an ideal piece of East Anglia to explore …

Fire Station Woodbridge doing what they do best

Walking along the River Deben in Suffolk

The River Deben offers some of the most beautiful scenery in England, let alone Suffolk. And what better way to enjoy it than with a walk along its banks? We are so lucky to have …

suffolk food hall

Fabulous local produce at the Suffolk Food Hall

The Suffolk Food Hall has developed a well earn’t reputation as the ‘Champion of champions’ for local  Suffolk food. We think this makes Suffolk Food Hall an ideal spot to visit when exploring our county …

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Wonderful food & drink at The Crown Woodbridge

The Crown Woodbridge is an excellent place to stop in and ‘refuel’ after a long day’s sightseeing around Suffolk.   When you’re enjoying the river Deben aboard our historic Dutch Sailing Barge ‘Twee Gebroeders, you’re …

castle

Orford Castle on the beautiful Suffolk Coast

Small for a Castle but nevertheless well maintained and mighty, Orford Castle is well worth a visit when you’re in Suffolk staying on a Woodfarm Barge. What Orford Castle lacks in size it makes up …

Our first Holiday Cottage Barge overlooking the Butt & Oyster

The Butt and Oyster on the River Orwell

The Butt and Oyster is one of Suffolk’s favourite and most well known pubs.  Named after the part the pub played in the old oyster trade in Suffolk, The Butt and Oyster is part of …

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The Anchor Woodbridge near our holiday cottages

The Anchor Woodbridge is just minutes from Twee Gebroeders; it’s the ideal place for quick pint or home-cooked meal.  If you’re staying on the beautiful river Deben here in Suffolk then there’s a very strong …

The Tidemill Woodbridge – an iconic Suffolk landmark

The historic Tidemill Woodbridge makes for a great location for a break on a Woodfarm Barge  There are few things in this world that are better than spending some quality time on the wonderful waterways …

Fully enclosed Dog meadow at Woodfarm Barns

Woof-Farm Meadow in Dog Friendly Suffolk

We’ve worked for many years to make Woodfarm the very best of Dog Friendly Suffolk and now the two-acre wild meadow opposite Woodfarm is a secure place for your dogs to run wild and get …

Five Star Reviews Competition with The Deli at The Chilli Farm

Have great Self Catering holidays with us!

Self catering holidays are a really fantastic way to flex those often dormant cooking skills. Enjoy cooking but can’t find the time? Self catering holidays are a great way to rediscover the joy of cooking. …

Relaxing Suffolk cottage holidays

Are Suffolk cottage holidays the best holidays?

We believe there’s a strong case to be made that Suffolk cottage holidays make the best holidays. These days our choice of holiday types and destinations have never been larger. However, Suffolk cottage holidays have …

Bird watching in Suffolk

Suffolk Coastal birdwatching adventures.

The Suffolk coastal region offers some of the very best birdwatching around. We are blessed here in Suffolk with 31 RSPB reserves, many of which are in the Suffolk coastal region, just a short drive …

Archie at our dog friendly holiday cottages in Suffolk

Rest those paws in our Dog Friendly Cottages.

We suggest that your dogs come and put their paws up in our dog-friendly cottages. Our hard-working K9 friends deserve a break the same as the rest of us. We think that a self catering …

Suffolk coastal accommodation - Aldeburgh beach

Aldeburgh, what’s on in 2017.

Summer will soon be upon us once again and Aldeburgh has plenty to offer the discerning traveller in 2017. Aldeburgh is well worth a visit at any time of the year. It boasts some excellent …

Woodbridge – a firm favourite with our guests

Woodbridge is a stunning little market town with plenty to offer visitors of all kinds. Located just a short drive from us here at Woodfarm Barns, the small town of Woodbridge is a very popular …

Eateries in Suffolk

The very best of Suffolk Food and Drink

We are so fortunate to have a veritable smorgasbord of Suffolk Food and Drink producers and suppliers right on our doorstep and we’ve pulled many of them all together on a handy map for you, …

Dog Friendly holiday barge Onderneming

Suffolk Villages and Towns – Snape

Snape may be a tiny village (with only around 600 inhabitants) but it punches well above its weight when it comes to tourist destinations. The main reason Snape is so regularly visited by our guests …

Water Street Lavenham

Lavenham – Suffolk Villages and Towns

Lavenham in Suffolk has some of the highest property prices in East Anglia. With good reason – the village is simply stunning. Lavenham is situated right in the heart of Suffolk, a medieval village that …

FREE Afternoon Tea with Scones

FREE Suffolk Afternoon Tea on us!

It may be the ‘calm before the storm’ if you have grandchildren, or you may simply have some time off before the Summer to avoid crazy season, but whichever it is we’ve decided to treat …

Snape Maltings on the River Alde

Snape Maltings & Aldeburgh – a Grand Day Out

I’ve written about Aldeburgh before but not sure if I’ve ever put pen to paper (finger to keyboard) for you about Snape Maltings, so after a lovely day out this week with my daughter, I …

Woodbridge's Fire Station Coffee Roasters

Fire Station Coffee Roasters, Woodbridge

The Fire Station Coffee Roasters in Woodbridge is one of my favourite places to relax and unwind in Suffolk. I may be slightly biased as Woodbridge is my second home but the Fire Station Coffee …

Suffolk Produce

Sampling great Suffolk Produce

If you enjoy sampling local food and drink on your holiday then check out some of the great Suffolk Produce that we source for you at our holiday cottages. Ever since the inception of Woodfarm …

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty anyone?

There are 46 designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the UK and we are lucky enough to have two of them right on our doorstep! These Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty offer a wealth …

A hit single anyone?

Holiday and a Hit Single anyone?

This may sound a little odd but have you ever dreamed of having a hit single? If you’re anything like me you hear some of the songs in the charts that sound so simple, and …

Aldeburgh Beach Suffolk

Suffolk Villages & Towns – Aldeburgh

Aldeburgh – a seaside town that embodies the quintessential English coastal holiday. With fish and chips so good they’re endorsed by Ed Sheeran! As part of our series of blogs about some of the wonderful …

The Tidemill, Woodbridge; iconic Suffolk landmark

Suffolk Villages & Towns – Woodbridge

We continue our look at some of the best villages and towns in Suffolk by casting our eye over to Woodbridge. Woodbridge is a truly beautiful jewel in the crown of rural Suffolk. This superb …

Orford Castle Suffolk

Orford – Suffolk Villages & Towns

Orford’s nature, history and food makes it a must-visit coastal Suffolk town. Orford has so much to explore in such a small place. Have you ever noticed that the kinds of people who really enjoy …

Suffolk Holiday Cottages with decadent champagne

Hot Tubs – Famous enthusiasts

Our Lodges in Suffolk (we call them Barns & Cottages) are very much aimed at people searching for a dog-friendly couples break, but also a hot tub break! Seven of our eight Lodges, Cabins, Barns, …

A couple sit on a bench at sunset

A magical Romantic Break in Suffolk

Suffolk is an ideal place to come for a Romantic Break. Here’s some things to do here in Suffolk that can help spark that magical kismet between two people. -Have a romantic meal out. Here …

Achieving Hygge in your Suffolk holiday cottage

Achieving Hygge at our Holiday Cottages

You may not have heard of Hygge so just in case you haven’t we’ll explain what it is and how to say it. Its a very simple concept of adopting a less stressful lifestyle. It …

Southwold Pier

Southwold Pier is a must when you’re here

Southwold Pier is less than a hour’s drive from our holiday cottages. In our opinion it’s well worth the journey! Southwold pier was originally built in 1900 as a landing stage for the steamships that …

Our luxury dog-friendly Holiday Cottages

Why choose a Suffolk Cottage Holiday?

Do you feel the need to unplug from the stresses of modern life? Then a Suffolk Cottage Holiday is the answer. As the Visit Suffolk website states: Suffolk is the perfect place to get away …

Suffolk Coastal

Suffolk Coastal interest: Sutton Hoo

Every year people flock in great numbers to the Suffolk Coast. That’s because a Suffolk Coastal Holiday has so much to offer. Alongside over fifty miles of stunning heritage coastline, the Suffolk Coastal region is …

Farmstay vibes without the hard work

The variety of Suffolk Cottages

The cottage is an image of the quintessential English life that is instantly recognisable all around the world. Suffolk Cottages are an essential part of this picture and they bring unique characters all of their …

Our Suffolk Holiday Cottages going to All About Dogs

Half way to All About Dogs 2017

If like us, you’re ‘All About Dogs’ all year round then you’ll be counting down the days until April the 16th 2017 when the ‘All About Dogs’ show hits Suffolk again.

Luxurious Hot Tub options on your Winter Break

Christmas in Suffolk – Shopping, Eating & Drinking!

Love it or loathe it, Christmas happens every year so we like to embrace it here at Woodfarm and invite you to Suffolk to do some Christmas shopping in our beautiful county. There are fabulous …

Dog Friendly Cottages

Dog Friendly Cottages (Humans welcome too)

Like most dogs you’re probably on the lookout for Dog Friendly Cottages that also allow your human companions to stay too. Understandably many places who offer Dog Friendly Cottages are hesitant about allowing humans into …

The Sail Loft Southwold

The Sail Loft Southwold

A little blog post bringing you the Sail Loft Southwold – one of the great places to eat and drink in this beautiful resort near our Suffolk holiday cottages. The current owners took over the …

Dog friendly beaches

Suffolk Coastal – Dog-Friendly Beaches

Dog-friendly Suffolk Coast (near Woodfarm) We are so lucky to be near to Suffolk Coastal. We have some amazing Dog-friendly Suffolk beaches; some remote, some on the edge of towns. A mix of sand and …

Mother seal on the River Deben

Samphire and Seals on the River Deben

A popular destination with our guests is the River Deben at Woodbridge, just 25 minutes from Woodfarm. We’ve covered lots of things to do along the Deben, but this Blog Post is all about my …

Needham Lake in the Heart of Suffolk

Grand Day Out in the Heart of Suffolk

So here’s another of our Grand Days Out for you and this one revolves around the very Heart of Suffolk. We’re going to take you for a walk along the beautiful River Gipping, have a …

Heart of Suffolk open countryside

Heart of Suffolk Tourism Action Group

Since 2009 I have spent my working day developing Woodfarm Barns as a holiday destination and since all the building work was completed I spend all my time promoting tourism in the Heart of Suffolk. …

What’s on in Suffolk this Summer? 2016

Summer is a great time to explore everything Suffolk has to offer and it is definitely our busiest time. There’s something for everyone at our holiday cottages and Suffolk in general, whatever the weather but …

Pig Gone Wild; What's on in Suffolk

Dog Friendly Cottages go wild with Pigs!

We are delighted to announce that our dog friendly cottages have teamed up with St Elizabeth Hospice for what we hope will just be the start of a great relationship. The Summer of 2016 sees …

Framlingham-Castle

Castles in Suffolk

Woodfarm House is over 500 years old even though our Suffolk holiday cottage business has only been in existence since 2010. To match the farmhouse, the history of Suffolk goes back thousands of years, even as …

Places to Eat & Drink with your dog in Suffolk

Because we know you like to keep your dogs happy, we thought we’d bring you a few of our favourite pubs and places to eat and drink within ten or fifteen minutes of our dog …

Suffolk days out – Lavenham and Long Melford

Two beautiful medieval villages in the heart of Suffolk, perfect for a day out for our holiday cottage guests. Lavenham and Long Melford are full of history and culture, so if you’re interested in those …

Our Suffolk Holiday Cottages going to All About Dogs

Our Suffolk Holiday Cottages @ ‘All About Dogs’ show

We are well known for our dog-friendly Suffolk Holiday Cottages, providing clean, luxurious self-catering holiday accommodation at the same time as actively welcoming dogs, rather than just tolerating them. That doesn’t mean we have gone to …

Abbey Gardens

Suffolk Holiday Cottage days out – Bury St Edmunds

With prominent shopping, an award winning market and a picturesque heritage, Bury St Edmunds is the ideal place to spend a fantastic day out. It’s a unique, historic gem, just half an hour from your …

Aldeburgh food & drink festival demo's from our luxury holiday cottages in Suffolk

Aldeburgh Food & Drink Festival

It’s that time of the year again and now, for the 10th time! It’s the fabulous Aldeburgh Food & Drink Festival! Just half an hour from our luxury holiday cottages in Suffolk, this is an …

Sea at Walberswick - a fave from our Suffolk holiday cottages

Suffolk Holiday Cottage days out – Walberswick and Southwold

Another grand day out from our Suffolk holiday cottages; Walberswick and Southwold are two charming seaside towns on the Suffolk coast, filled with culture and beautiful scenery. Visiting both of these would make a perfect day …

Suffolk Holiday Cottage days out – Dedham Vale

Just on the Suffolk/Essex border, Dedham Vale has some breathtaking scenery, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, amazing food and bags of history and culture. This area is a big hit with our Suffolk …

Your wellness holiday cottages in Suffolk

Suffolk Holiday Cottages are perfect for Wellness Holidays

Don’t just book a holiday in Suffolk… book a ‘Wellness Holiday’ in the heart of Suffolk! If you’re looking for a relaxing and refreshing break, then our luxury Suffolk holiday cottages are perfect. With many …

Massage pamper

£20 & £50 OFF Vouchers for Pamper Breaks

Since the start, our guests have enjoyed being pampered by Debbie and the team at the Beauty Barn. We are now working closer than ever with them to bring our guests a real alternative to …

Walberswick - a favourite with our Suffolk holiday cottage friends

A firm favourite from our holiday cottages

As I’ve said many times, I love spending time around Suffolk; walking, eating, drinking and generally mooching around and putting myself in the shoes of a holidaymaker. Walberswick is one of the favourite destinations that …

Put your X for our Suffolk holiday cottages

Vote for The Woodfarm Party!

As the 2015 election reaches fever pitch we figured it was time to let you all read the Woodfarm Party Manifesto. If you are confused as to who to vote for then have a little …

The Tidemill, Woodbridge; iconic Suffolk landmark

Woodbridge – a must on your Suffolk holiday

Meeting holiday guests to my cottages week in, week out, I am always being asked to recommend pubs, restaurants etc around Suffolk. We have our own website specifically for this, as well as lots of …

Picnic in Suffolk at our luxury holiday cottages

Suffolk Summer holiday at Woodfarm Barns

Summer is undoubtedly our busiest time as we welcome guests to our holiday cottages for a luxury self-catering break in Suffolk. We do try to encourage guests to book their holiday or short-break in advance …

Pin Mill is a popular choice with our Suffolk holiday cottage guests

Pin Mill – perfect Suffolk holiday afternoon

I try to get out as much as I can and visit all the amazing places in Suffolk so that we can spread the word for our holiday cottage guests. It’s a tough job but …

Luxury hot tub in Deben Barn, one of our romantic self-catering Suffolk holiday cottages

FREE Luxury Hot Tub Holiday in Suffolk!!!

Having installed our first luxury hot tub at one of our gorgeous holiday cottages we thought what better way to launch it than to let one lucky couple come and try it out for FREE! …

water sports in Suffolk

Fresh air fun near our Suffolk holiday cottages

For those who love the outdoors when they are on holiday or having a short break, there’s plenty to do around our holiday cottages in Suffolk. We are surrounded by beautiful countryside, perfect for walking …

Luxurious hot tub in Deben Barn Suffolk holiday cottage

Hot Tub in your Suffolk Holiday Cottage

Ever since I set out to build my holiday cottage business in Suffolk I wanted Hot Tubs. They are widely recognised as the pinnacle of relaxation, luxury and romance. Hot Tubs conjour up images of luxuriating …

Visit England Gold Award for our Suffolk holiday cottages

English Tourism Week celebrating staycations

Whilst many of you aren’t directly involved with the tourism industry we all enjoy the wealth of what our green and pleasant land has to offer in our leisure time. It just happens to be …

Owl

Suffolk Owl Sanctuary near our holiday cottages

One of the closest activities to our holiday cottages is the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary, based just around the corner in Stonham Aspal, Suffolk. It’s a charitable organisation and has been going for almost 15 years. …

Plants at garden centre

Suffolk holiday cottages, plants and gifts

Walking through the doors of Laurel Farm Garden Centre you enter a fabulous cavern of gifts, ornaments, pots & containers, coffee shop and floristry, as well as their huge range of wonderful plants and trees, …

Image on Food

Image on Food in our holiday cottages

One of the most satisfying parts of what I do is meeting other business owners as my guests, that have developed their own enterprises from nothing too. One of my longest standing and loyal guests …

Felixstowe beach, Suffolk

Why choose Suffolk for your holiday?

Last week I was invited as a ‘Key Tourism Partner’ to attend a meeting at Mid Suffolk District Council with the Tourism and Economic Development departments, looking at the demographic of our holiday cottage guests …

Leestock Music Festival in Suffolk

My aim is to cover as much as I can on this blog page about places to visit and things to do in Suffolk whether you are on holiday or having a short break in …

Dog walking on lead

Suffolk Dog Day – near our holiday cottages

As the name suggests, it’s a day for dogs in Suffolk! Owners are allowed too! It’s a charitable event and during the last seven years it has raised over £330,000 for the Suffolk Community Foundation, …

snowdrops at Anglesey Abbey

National Trust – Anglesey Abbey

National Trust visits – Anglesey Abbey Visiting National Trust properties is one of my favourite things to do as I explore Suffolk and visit places of interest. I love eating in lovely National Trust restaurants …

A Winter break at our Suffolk holiday cottages

Luxury Christmas breaks in a Suffolk Holiday Cottage

Imagine strolling down the lane surrounded by hedges and fields, breathing in the fresh country air, before heading back to your Christmas Suffolk holiday cottage, decorated and wrapping you up in festive spirit. The Christmas …

Veggie Red Lion

Eating out in Suffolk – The Veggie Red Lion

I try to get out as much as possible to put myself in the shoes of my holiday cottage guests so that I can sample the best that Suffolk tourism has to offer. This week …

Cheese at country market

Framlingham Market in Suffolk

A fabulous rural market in Framlingham. Fram (as it’s known locally) was granted permission to hold weekly markets in the 13th Century and has been doing so ever since. A very popular destination for many …

Bury St Edmunds Christmas fayre

Bury St Edmunds Christmas Fayre

Bury St Edmunds is a very picturesque town any time of the year but at Christmas it takes on a whole new, magical look and thanks to the Christmas Fayre starting today (!) it’s definitely …

Dog-friendly pub in Suffolk - The Shoulder of Mutton, Assington

Dog friendly pubs & Restaurants in Suffolk

Dog Friendly Pubs are quite common in Suffolk, many with log-fires, wooden floorboards and great food, not to mention the range of fabulous local beer, cyder and wine from such brewers and vineyards as Adnams, …

Bird watching in Suffolk

Birdwatching and fresh air at RSPB Minsmere

RSPB Minsmere is a twitchers heaven but also a fabulous experience for us mere mortals too! There’s tons to see (and hear) with stunning coastal scenes accompanied by rare birds breeding and calling in on …

Celebrate Christmas in Suffolk on your Winter Break

Festive Hampers in your Suffolk Holiday Cottage!

Earsham Street Deli are proud to be supplying our Holiday cottage guests again this Christmas. Taken over by Michelle, the current owner, in 2007, the Earsham Street Deli is synonymous with all things tasty in …

Thorpeness; dog-friendly Suffolk beaches

Thorpeness – a quintessential English day out

One of my favourite places on our beautiful Heritage Coast is Thorpeness, just half an hour or so from Woodfarm Barns It just conjours up images of a great day out at the seaside without …

Achieving Hygge in your Suffolk holiday cottage

Pamper breaks in the heart of the Suffolk Countryside

Fuss & Food – that’s what we all like when we want pamper breaks. Whether it’s a Hen or Wedding Party weekend or simply a well-earned pamper break we have it covered with Beauty Treatments, …

Food Hamper at Woodfarm Barns

FREE Hampers & Holidays!

We are so pleased to announce that we have hit 2000 ‘Likes’ on Facebook! Our Social Media presence is very important to us and the following we are building on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ etc., is …

Aldeburgh Food & Drink Festival

Suffolk Festivals – Summer 2014

There’s loads going on this summer in Suffolk and there’s something for everyone! Woolpit Festival 2014, 5-21 June Mill Lane, Woolpit The 39th annual Woolpit festival features a terrific mix of entertainment this year, including …

Otter swimming in river

The BBC are on their way!

It’s just been announced that BBC’s Naturewatch programme is going to be based at nearby Minsmere Nature Reserve for the forthcoming series! This is great news for Suffolk Tourism as a whole and certainly great …

Woodland trees

Beautiful Suffolk

I’ve written lots about individual places to go in Suffolk and we have our new website Where Do We? (not yet finished at the time of writing) – a guide to all things Suffolk – …

Daffodils in spring

Spring has definitely Sprung in Suffolk!

The Daffs are well and truly out in force, Hoi & Sin the Woodfarm ducks are back, the sun is shining every day and the lawns are drying out! Yes, it’s that time of the …

Lovely food at the Four Horsehoes Thornham Parva

Four Horseshoes – Thornham

A great, traditional Suffolk pub/restaurant! Having been here countless times now, including our first staff Christmas meal, I can thoroughly recommend The Four Horseshoes as a consistently great place to eat. There’s a warm atmosphere …

Ickworth House near our Suffolk holiday cottages

Ickworth House – Bury St Edmunds

A fantastic day out, just half an hour from Woodfarm Barns, Ickworth is a National Trust property, an amazing house set in 1800 acres of woodland. The origins date back to 1253 with a timber …

he Pond at our Romantic, Luxurious Holiday Cottages in the Heart of rural Suffolk

Abbey Aquatics – Our Pond Partners

One of the favourite features amongst our guests is our lovely fish pond. Many of our fish and pond plants, as well as maintenance products and loads of advice comes from just next door to …

Say Cheese! Pop-up Restaurant

No, you’re not having your photo taken but you do have the opportunity to sample some of the finest cheeses that Suffolk has to offer! We are hosting our next Pop Up Restaurant event between …

daisy tandem

Daisy – our bicycle made for two

Inspired by all the amazing romantic breaks that I see here, from first holidays to proposals, honeymoons to baby’s first holiday I really do see first hand that this is the place for love to …

Framlingham Castle

“aboutfram” – Framlingham’s great e-newsletter

Aboutfram is an e-newsletter bringing us info on special offers, upcoming sales, new product lines and news of events, all in the area around Framlingham. It’s excellent for us as so many of our guests …

Flower arranging

Floristry Workshops @ Suffolk Food Hall

Coming up this Autumn and Winter at the fabulous Suffolk Food Hall Check these dates to see if you are staying here or in the area and can tap into them. 10am ~ 1pm Workshops …

Flatford near our Suffolk holiday cottages

Flatford Mill

Ok, just about dipping our toes into Essex but it still feels like Suffolk and it’s only 20 minutes down the road from Woodfarm Barns. Flatford Mill is accessible by road and has a car …

Sailing

Suffolk Coast Sailing – Anne’s Grand Day Out

We met our skipper Simon at the marina in Levington. He introduced us to the lovely Emma; the 27ft yacht that we would be sailing for the day. As we embarked onto Emma, Simon went through …

Wild flowers

Carters Meadow – A beautiful community project

A fabulous wild-flower meadow on the edge of the village of Cotton in Suffolk. Given to the village around the turn of the millennium, it was a four acre site that they have worked on …

Walking in Suffolk – Rambling on!

This page covers a few ideas of places to go for a nice walk, which are all really popular with our guests. We have nature reserves, riverside and coastal walks on here. We have some …

dog friendly holiday cottage in Suffolk

Holidays in Suffolk

Luxury Holidays in the beautiful rural Suffolk Countryside in our self-catering cottages. We have now developed a specific website, called Where Do We?… for this as there’s lots to do when you holiday around the …

Woodland trees

Nature Reserves near Woodfarm Barns

There are many interesting forests and nature reserves within easy reach of Woodfarm, including Minsmere, Levington, Rendlesham and Dunwich Heath. Fox Fritillary Meadow – On the Suffolk Tourist route – About 10 mins away The …

Delicious wine

Wine Tasting Experience with DJ Wines

DJ Wines is a small, intimate winery set in an idyllic rural location overlooking the historic village church at Monk Soham. Here you will find Derek Jones making delicious hand-crafted wines and liqueurs from local …

Crows Hall

Crow’s Hall Country Fayre

This weekend saw the fourth year for Crow’s Hall Country Fayre raising funds for the combined benefice of seven churches. Having not been before, due to working flat out building this place, we thought we’d …

Wholesome hearty food at the Moon and Mushroom

The Moon and Mushroom – Swilland

The Moon and Mushroom is a great little ‘proper’ pub serving good, hearty, wholesome food. They’ve even won awards! The Moon and Mushroom is a 16th Century free house, which means they have a great selection of …

Chinese food

Chinese Chequers – Restaurant & Take-away

We have been to Chinese Chequers a number of times now and they are extremely consistent. The service is excellent and the staff are impeccably polite. The food is also excellent. It is a town-centre …

Beers at The Victoria in Earl Soham

The Victoria – Earl Soham

The Victoria in Earl Soham is a great old real ale pub that time seems to have forgotten! It clearly hasn’t been decorated for years, which actually really works! It’s a very quaint ‘real’ pub …

Crowfield Church next to our luxury Suffolk holiday cottages

Crowfield Church

This is one of the last remaining timber-framed Churches in Suffolk and is well worth a look. It’s set back from the road and isn’t actually in Crowfield village as such, but is on the …

Deli Hamper 'A slice of Suffolk'

Coddenham Food Store & Deli

A great little deli also serving teas and coffees, Coddenham Food Store was re-opened in 2010 by Julia and Jane. They sell loads of great food and drink and try to stock as much local …

Sailing

Suffolk Coast Sailing

A life on the ocean wave! We have teamed up with Suffolk Coast Sailing for those guests wishing to enjoy a sailing adventure on board a modern Beneteau yacht. The skipper is RYA Yachtmaster Simon …

Suffolk country walks

Broom Hill Short Walk

Coddenham to Hemingstone – just 3 miles from Woodfarm Barns. Having been told by a friend that there were positive sightings of millions of Snowdrops, we went in search of them. This great little walk …

Needham Lake Suffolk

Needham Lake

Needham Lake in Needham Market is a great walk, whatever the weather. Needham Lake is man-made, having originally been rough, open meadowland. During the 1970s gravel was extracted during the construction of the nearby A14 …

Pop Up Restaurant at our holiday cottages in Suffolk

Pop Up Restaurant here @ Woodfarm!

What an Awesome Event! On the 10th, 11th & 12th May, Michelin Star Chef Mark Peters will be hosting a ‘Pop-up Restaurant’ here in Woodfarm House!

Melford Hall near our Suffolk Holiday Cottage

LeeStock Music Festival – 25th & 26th May 2013

A fabulous local music festival, held in honour of the memory of Lee Dunford, a budding musician from Sudbury who was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma at 17 and after 4.5 years he lost his battle. …

A Suffolk Holiday Cottage for my Ollyday

Most of the time I write these Blog Posts myself so it’s lovely when someone writes them for me. This one is a bit different as although it’s been sent in by a guest, it’s …

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!

dog paw print
Dogs stay FREE

We don't just tolerate dogs, we welcome them! We've built our reputation on this, and we're proud of it!

dog biscuit
Free Doggy treats

Dog bowls, treats and Dog towels. Our furry friends even get Woodfarm branded poop bag holders!

thumbs up
Over 1,000 5 star reviews

Well in excess of 1,000 Five Star Tripadvisor, Facebook & Google Reviews. Over 25% of our guests come back!

beach huts
Brilliant beaches

Suffolk has an incredible Heritage Coast, with great beaches, all in easy reach of us.

fence
Dog exercise meadow

Pawesome, fully-enclosed two acre Pooch Paddock for your Dogs to go bonkers and make new friends in. Barns only.

trophy
Multi-awards

Visit England Gold Awards coming out of our ears, as well as their coveted ROSE Award for Service Excellence.

hot tubs
Private Hot Tubs

Private Hot tubs with seven of our eight Barns and Cottages. The ultimate in relaxation, just because you're worth it. Barns only.

boots
Stunning Countryside

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Yes, plural. Two AONB's on our doorstep! Suffolk Coast & Heaths, and Dedham Vale.

river walks
River Walks

Stunning river walks directly from your gangplank on either Barge! Wildlife and breathtaking scenery in abundance.

Fetch the latest news!

AI told me off

Chat GPT told me off!

I got told off this morning by Artificial Intelligence!   I use Chat GPT a lot these days. It is a very valuable tool for gathering information that I can use to my advantage for …

The Bucket List

The Bucket List: Planning your perfect Suffolk break

Imagine a hassle-free, stress-free, tailor-made concierge service, that lets you unwind without any fuss. For FREE! Yup, you just imagined The Bucket List. For years we’ve toiled to bring you a ton of the very …

Bargain Hot Tub break with our Charity giveaway

Soak, Relax, and Give Back: January Charity Breaks at Woodfarm Barns

It’s that time of year again when we like to do something a little special. January is one of our busiest months for future bookings, but it’s typically quieter on-site with fewer guests staying at …

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