My Story - A Short Getaway With Friends in Suffolk

Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life with your closest friends? Imagine a few days spent in the serene beauty of Suffolk. Whether you're unwinding at a countryside cottage or exploring coastal villages, this region has everything you need for a memorable girls' short break. Make lasting memories with your besties in picturesque Suffolk – because sometimes, we all need that special time away together.

In need of a mini retreat, our marketing manager chose to recharge at a holiday cottage nestled in the quaint village of Barnham, near Thetford in Suffolk. Walnut Tree Barn is more than just accommodation—it's a luxurious escape that is both dog-friendly and a perfect place to celebrate with either family or friends, surrounded by serene countryside. If you long for a break from the whirlwind of city life, this place has everything you could wish for.

With space to comfortably accommodate up to ten people in its hot tub and offering cosy evenings courtesy of a wood-burning stove, Walnut Tree Barn's four en suite bedrooms provide the ultimate comfort. Even if the weather isn't ideal, the large covered outdoor area with heaters and a high-end barbecue ensures that you can enjoy an alfresco meal any time.

Keep reading to see how her girls retreat fulfilled and surpassed all her expectations.

So can you tell us why you chose this holiday cottage?

My best friend and I live in different cities, separated by hundreds of miles. We decided it was time for a much-needed break—a working holiday to escape our bustling city lives. She normally resides in a flat in London with her dog, so this country break felt like an absolute treat for all of us.

We spent four midweek days at the most breathtaking property. The place boasted every luxury imaginable— from a spacious 10-person hot tub to thoughtful details like bathrobes in each bedroom and a fully stocked wood-burning fireplace. The owners left no stone unturned; their meticulous attention to detail made our stay unforgettable.

Nestled in serene countryside, the cottage is surrounded by fields dotted with sheep and has a large enclosed garden where the dog could run freely and have fun. It was everything we hoped for and more—a perfect getaway that allowed us to recharge and enjoy each other's company away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Were there any specific amenities or features of the cottage that you really enjoyed?

When we arrived, the owner welcomed us with a locally sourced hamper. Inside, there were some of the most delicious brownies I have ever tasted in my life—truly unforgettable. Needless to say, they didn't last long! We also found local cider, beer, and wine in the hamper, which added a wonderful touch to our evenings after closing our laptops for the day.

Relaxing together in the hot tub was such a special experience; we'd chat about our days before slipping into bathrobes and preparing meals together. Whether we used the barbecue or cooked in the incredibly well-equipped kitchen, it always felt like a treat.

One chilly night stands out —gathered indoors under soft blankets with the wood-burning stove lit. It was pure bliss: warm, cosy, and inviting no matter the season.

What did you think of the location and its convenience to local attractions?

It was tough to leave the comfort of the cottage, but when we did, we uncovered a treasure trove of local attractions waiting for us. Thetford Forest is a must-visit with its High Lodge Forest Adventure and Go Ape high ropes course—perfect for both walking and cycling enthusiasts.

Just 2.5 miles away, there's a welcoming local inn where delicious food and drinks await (and your furry friend can join in too). And don't miss out on the historic market town of Bury St Edmunds, only 9 miles from here. It's rich with Viking history and features an abbey, cathedral, Theatre Royal, Cineworld complex, Arc Shopping Centre, and Apex events venue—all nestled amid eateries, cafes, bars, and fine dining options.

If you're up for more exploring: Newmarket is just 17 miles away and renowned as the heart of horseracing; Cambridge university lies 29 milesaway; Norwich is only 32 miles; not to mention the breathtaking Suffolk and Norfolk coastlines adorned with wide sandy beaches.

Looking for inspiration for your next getaway?

Booking a cottage holiday is like hitting the reset button on life. It allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday routine and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Whether you choose a quaint cottage by the seaside or a cosy cabin in the woods, the experience is sure to be unforgettable. The opportunity to disconnect from technology and reconnect with loved ones is something that is becoming increasingly rare in today's fast-paced world. The sense of peace and tranquillity that comes with a cottage getaway is truly priceless. From enjoying a morning cup of coffee on the porch to roasting marshmallows over a crackling fire at night, every moment spent at a cottage is a memory in the making. So why not browse through our other blog posts for more inspiration and start planning your next escape today? Trust us, you won't regret it.

For more inspiration of short break in the UK take a look at our blogs of the best walking hotspots in the UK or if you prefer two wheels then our self guided cycling holidays around the UK is for you. If you're looking for trusted holiday homes across the UK, our My Story blogs are here to help. Whether it's Reconnecting in Yorkshire or A Girls Getaway in Scotland, we've got you covered.

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