Nestled in deepest, darkest Suffolk, positioned along a winding country road surrounded by fields and forest awaits Farmstead Lodges, the epitome of rustic tranquility with a hefty dose of designer touches thrown into the mix
Arrive at the gated doors of Farmstead Lodges in Suffolk and be prepared to forget every responsibility that followed closely behind you like a tailgating nuisance on the journey here. A tucked away world of rustic luxury, these large self-catered cabins immediately immerse you into a world of cozy calm and lack of responsibilities as soon as your shoes crunch down the gravel path.
Following a slower, sleepier pace of life, the eight lodges found at Farmstead (sustainability-built using reclaimed wood and materials, for an added eco boost) aim to decompress visitors from their busy lives and non-stop outside world. Owned and created by husband and wife team Ali and Sian Kerr, who first dreamt up the idea for the site during the initial lockdown, interiors reflect a feeling of cozy homeliness, whilst still featuring crème de la crème furnishings, appliances and accessories. Sure, this is technically a rural location – but I’ve never seen the countryside look quite so high-tech.
Alongside Sian, Suffolk-based interior designer Angie Ashby worked with local furniture makers, upholsterers, and decorators to carefully create the chic rustic interiors you see around you. As always, it all boils down to the detail – vintage art and objects, sourced from local auction houses and trips to antique markets are also dotted throughout the abodes, conjuring a feeling of inviting homeliness amongst the elegance.
The Room
I stay in a one bedroom lodge at Farmstead (perfect for a couples getaway or girly sleepover) but two-bedroom lodges are also available for larger groups or small families. The door opens to an open-plan living room featuring simple colour schemes with beige, browns and other muted tones.
Comfortable and welcoming, it feels like the interiors and wooden floors have been designed to subtly blend into the background, leaving you to settle in and get acquainted with the surroundings. Don’t be fooled by these simple colours however – there is endless detail etched into the space, which is enriched with inspiration from the surrounding Suffolk countryside.
Take the kitchen, for example. Kitted out to the nines, guests can make the most of a Rangemaster oven, plus hob, dishwasher and fridge. Pots, pans, Soho Home crockery and even cast iron casserole dishes fill the cupboards – so if you’re into your cooking or just enjoy watching Saturday Kitchen, the area is bound to impress.
There’s even choice when it comes to the glasses – I spot options for martinis, wine and (for those either too young to drink alcohol or perhaps just feeling healthy) gorgeous simple water tumblers. Beautiful state-of-the-art appliances complete the space, such as a Dualit toaster and Grind coffee machine sitting on the counter, which beckons me back for espresso after espresso from the pretty pink pods stored nearly on a nearby shelf.
The bedroom is equally inviting, featuring Piglet In Bed linen (there’s even a future 20% discount available to everyone that spends the night) and a super size cloud-like king bed that feels larger than my own living room. Climb under the covers at your risk – getting up again will take twice as much effort compared to home. The bathroom amplifies the rustic chic vibe with a powerful walk-in shower, plus cool concentrate sink and hand-crafted Norfolk Natural Living toiletries, created from scratch in the brand’s Norfolk workshop.
Outside on the veranda, a copper bath sits tucked away in each cabin, providing the perfect alternative to a traditional hot tub when long lazy summer nights draw in. You’ll also spot two wooden deckchairs on the wooden decking – ideal for sipping away a sunset, glass of wine in hand.
Things To Try
Guests are left to their own devices after settling in – the space is yours, as is your free time. There’s plenty to explore in the surrounding area, with highlights including:
1 Adventure into the Great Outdoors: Fire up your Strava and head out on one of the many nearby trails for a walk or for the brave, a run. There’s even specific Farmstead Lodges routes to try out, taking you around nearby fields and forests for a calmingly scenic afternoon.
2 Meals at The White Horse, Easton: When hunger strikes, one 20-minute stroll will take you via carved footpath into the nearest village Easton, where mouth-watering pub grub crafted with local ingredients awaits at The White Horse. Order up a feast and forget about the washing up – then use your torch (handily provided at the lodge) to stroll (or stumble) back to your gorgeous abode.
3 Stroll around Framlington Castle: A quick five-minute drive will take you into Framington, a small market town brimming with boutique treasure. A magnificent 12th century fortress, Framlington Castle provides the ideal spot for a morning of perusing – with stunning views to admire for miles around from the upper walls. english-heritage.org.uk
4 Drive into Aldeburgh: A gorgeous seaside town, pop to Aldeburgh and have a nose around – bakeries, boutiques, restaurants and more await to be explored. On gloomy days, it’s atmospherically moody whilst sunshine will leave you basking in the staycation glow.
The Wordrobe Verdict
A mini haven surrounded by endless fields and winding country roads, Farmstead Lodges provides the perfect break from ordinary life. Sit back, break open the Welcome Pack and get ready to enjoy a dose of rural life with a VIP edge.
Make it happen
One bedroom lodges are available from £1,005 for a weekend in low season (Oct – April) and from £2,100 for a week in peak season (May to Sept). For reservations please visit farmsteadlodges.co.uk
Words by Sophie Ritchie, editor
