Lavenham Orchid Cottage, a charming mid-terrace Victorian cottage, nestles close to St. Peter and St. Paul’s Church, a Grade I listed parish church in Lavenham, right in the heart of Constable Country· Noted as one of England’s best preserved medieval villages, with more than 300 listed buildings to discover. With Gainsborough’s birthplace, Sudbury, just a few miles away and the stunning Abbey Gardens of Bury St. Edmunds a short drive, guests can enjoy a wealth of things to see and do.
Lavenham Orchid Cottage, set over two floors, sleeps up to four guests and is a delightful dwelling speckled with the owner’s glass art creations and paintings; the inspiration behind the cottage’s name· But the floral delights also extend to a newly planted rose garden and pergola, and from summer 2023 the secluded chamomile and wildlife garden will be ready for guests to enjoy. Be welcomed into the traditional living/dining room. After a long day exploring, you can cosy up on the sofas and enjoy your favourite movie as the wood burner crackles nearby. Conjure up a feast for your guests, or dash down to the local supermarket for a Cooks to pop in the microwave. Or why not order in and settle down to enjoy a relaxing dinner discussing plans for the days ahead? Admire the beautifully hand-crafted orchid tiles whilst indulging in a cascading drench-head shower, before climbing the stairs to take your rest in one of two light and airy bedrooms; a kingsize and a small double, each with plenty of storage for your belongings. Serve your guests an al fresco breakfast in the beautiful rose pergola, with elevated views overlooking the rose garden· Or enjoy a lantern-lit evening watching the sun go down·
Grab your walking boots and head into the local village, where you are within easy access of the National Trust site of Lavenham’s 16th-century Guildhall, with its delightful tea rooms and gardens; one of the most spectacular timber framed buildings of medieval England, featuring more recently in the Harry Potter films· Also famous in the Harry Potter films, is De Vere House, Godric’s Hollow, just around the corner in Water Street. With numerous tea shops, pubs and restaurants all within an easy stroll, you will be spoiled for eateries whilst browsing the boutiques, antique shops and galleries lining the High Street. Lavenham’s famous Farmer’s Market, reputed to be the best in Suffolk, is held on the fourth Sunday of every month, just a few yards up the road outside Lavenham Village Hall.
Take the short drive to Sudbury, with its scenic parks offering a perfect spot for a picnic, meet the local wildlife at Norman House, a relaxing beauty spot, or immerse yourself in Sudbury’s history with a visit to the Sudbury Heritage Centre and of course, Gainsborough House. Venture a little further to Bury St Edmunds, where you can visit the beautiful Abbey Gardens, step back in time with a trip to the Moyse’s Hall Museum which has stood since 1899 or the Suffolk Regiment Museum which showcases former solider armoury. Lavenham Orchid Cottage is a cosy, comfortable retreat promising a relaxing, memorable stay in Lavenham. Beach 22 miles.