Bumpstead Barn

Bumpstead Barn, enveloped by its expansive garden, graces the outskirts of the picturesque village of Steeple Bumpstead in the Suffolk countryside. Positioned between Cambridge and Bury St Edmunds, albeit further south, the barn serves as an ideal retreat for exploration.

To the east lies the enchanting village of Lavenham, celebrated as Britain’s best-preserved medieval village and a crucial wool town in Suffolk. Lavenham's medieval charm unfolds at every turn, with characterful timber-framed buildings adorning the narrow streets and lanes. The village, now a 'foodie' haven, boasts a rich history dating back to Tudor England, featuring over 300 buildings of architectural and historic interest, including the magnificent Church of St Peter and St Paul, Little Hall, The Guildhall, and De Vere House.

Lavenham's cultural tapestry extends from an array of art galleries to an abundance of charming cafes and restaurants. The village takes pride in its strong links to America, evident in the history of the Lavenham airbase, home to the 487th Bombardment Group of the 8th US Army Air Force during WWII. Explore delightful walks, such as the Lavenham Woodland walk, part of the Old Lavenham to Long Melford Great Eastern Railway line, revealing not only scenic beauty but also a habitat for 24 varieties of butterflies.

Alternatively, Bury St Edmunds, the home of Saint Edmund, the original patron Saint of England boasts award-winning restaurants, excellent shopping, beautiful parks, historic buildings and many annual festivals.

Or, you may want to head into Cambridge for some cultural treats or shopping. There is something for everyone in Cambridge. You might like to go punting on the River Cam, enjoy a picnic in the park, cycle around the impressive network of cycle paths, visit the stunning university buildings or join a walking tour of the city. King’s College Chapel is celebrated for its choral services including the famous A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, broadcast live by the BBC to the nation and around the globe on Christmas Eve. The University of Cambridge’s Fitzwilliam Museum houses world-class collections of art and antiquities spanning centuries and Kettle’s Yard is a fantastic gallery for 20th century art and contemporary art. Theatre lovers can enjoy performances straight from the West End, while music fans can delight in the many alfresco music gigs.

It is also easy to visit the dramatic and beautiful Suffolk Heritage Coast and the wonderful, popular seaside resorts of Aldeburgh, Thorpeness, Southwold and Felixstowe from the barn.

Bumpstead Barn stands as the perfect gateway to a myriad of activities, making it an ideal home base for exploring the diverse wonders of the surrounding area.

Read more about Suffolk

Welcome to Suffolk, the East of England's very own treasure trove of delight! Famous for its charming villages, dreamy beaches and a history so rich, Suffolk is the place to be for anyone in search of the ultimate British adventure. We have some fabulous luxury properties waiting just for you. Seaside or countryside – take your pick!

Nature lovers, rejoice! The pristine, breathtaking Suffolk coast is calling your name. Aldeburgh, the coastal town with charm to spare, welcomes you with a shingle beach perfect for salty sea air inhalation, some good old fish and chips and the Aldeburgh Scallop sculpture, a tribute to the legendary composer Benjamin Britten. If you head a little further south, you will stumble upon the oh-so-peaceful village of Orford, complete with a castle on a hill offering panoramic views that will make your heart skip a beat. You can dive into the whimsical wonder of Thorpeness, head to Walberswick where beach huts and sandy shores create a haven for artists and beachcombers or Southwold, a gem with a quirky pier, a stunning beach and the famed Adnams Brewery. These seaside gems offer artsy flair and a delightful dose of coastal bliss.

Right in the beating heart of Suffolk lies Bury St Edmunds, a town so historically loaded it practically whispers tales of the medieval era. Look up, and you will see the majestic St Edmundsbury Cathedral dominating the skyline, a Gothic masterpiece that will make your jaw drop. The Abbey Gardens invite relaxation with colourful flowerbeds and the remains of the once-mighty Bury St Edmunds Abbey. Let us not forget Suffolk's rural charm, sprinkled generously across idyllic villages such as Lavenham. This medieval wool town is a paradise for history buffs, with timber-framed buildings that look like they are straight out of a fairy tale. You can explore the Guildhall and wander through cobbled streets surrounded by boutique shops and quaint tearooms.

For the wild at heart, Thetford Forest is your playground! Cyclists and hikers, get ready for scenic trails winding through dense woodlands and around picturesque lakes. The High Lodge Forest Centre is your one-stop-shop for outdoor thrills. Go Ape treetop adventures and Segway tours await, promising an adrenaline-fueled day amidst nature.

Suffolk's cultural scene is a vibrant kaleidoscope of excitement. The Snape Maltings, nestled by the River Alde, is a cultural hotspot with world-class music events in its iconic concert hall while the annual Aldeburgh Festival is a global magnet for music lovers celebrating the legacy of none other than Benjamin Britten.

Suffolk is like a timeless work of art, where history cuddles up with natural wonders. Whether you are wandering through medieval towns, exploring the coastal marvels or soaking in cultural vibes, Suffolk guarantees a quintessentially British experience that will leave your heart singing. Come on, the adventure awaits!