Guide to Boutique Hotels in Suffolk

There are a great many Boutique Hotels in Suffolk to choose from, but what exactly is a 'Boutique Hotel'? Many people are uncertain of the features associated with the term - not least because the unique and distinct nature of such hotels is a main part of the definition. In simple terms, a boutique hotel will be unusual in some way - whether that be the building's original structure and use (e.g. boutique hotels are sometimes converted barns, Grade Listed houses, or water mills, to name but a few examples), its interior decor and design, or its intimate-yet-stylish, bespoke bedrooms - it is likely to have that certain something that differentiates it from other, more traditional accommodation.

Boutique hotels offer the height of luxury and comfort to their guests, complimented by their individual character and charm. You can expect boutique hotels to have fewer rooms than a regular hotel - although this is by no means absolute - and many are independently owned, thus having more of a personal touch than hotels affiliated with a chain. Boutique hotels tend to be at the higher end of the cost ladder, but there are always exceptions to every rule.

Outlined below are some of the wonderful and fascinating boutique hotels that Suffolk has to offer.

The Gatehouse, on the outskirts of Ipswich, is truly a hidden delight. Resting in 3 acres of mature grounds, this small-yet-elegant, 13-roomed boutique hotel is designed in the Regency style and promises visitors a relaxing stay. The food served here is locally sourced and expertly prepared, and comes complete with a wonderful wine list to compliment your meal. The peaceful location on the edge of the town, alongside the beautiful gardens, provides the perfect setting for a romantic dinner or weekend away.

No article on Boutique Hotels in Suffolk would be complete without a mention of Sutherland House Hotel & Restuarant in Southwold. This fascinating building is rich in history and fully restored to offer a resplendent venue for drinks, meals, functions and, of course, wonderful rooms. Here you will find such delights as wood burning stoves and beautifully designed rooms with rich fabrics. Sutherland House Restaurant offers fine dining at its best. Guests are welcome to drop in for a glass of wine and a plate of tapas in front of the fire; a gourmet sandwich; a home-made Red Poll beef burger, or a British classic dish - or to come for a three course meal. The restaurant has just been awarded 2 AA Rosettes and 5 Yellow stars by the AA for 2009, making that three years in a row!

The Westleton Crown, set on the Suffolk Heritage Coast between Southwold and Aldeburgh, is a traditional coaching inn dating back to the 12th Century. This lovely, distinct boutique hotel retains the rustic charm and character of its heritage, but with the added sophistication and comforts that the modern day guest has come accustomed to. The bar has a 'local pub' feel and offers a large selection of ales and wines, and the sophisticated AA 2 rosette, home-cooked menu may be sampled in the elegant dining room, cosy parlour, stylish conservatory, or outside on the charming terraced gardens - weather permitting! Visitors do not need to be guests at the hotel in order to dine there. Other highlights include log fires, 25 stylish and comfortable rooms (including family rooms), and nearby attractions such as Dunwich Heath and RSPB Minsmere.

The Crown Inn, in Stoke by Nayland, is a privately owned village inn that is sure to make you feel welcome. The Inn has eleven graceful rooms overlooking open Suffolk countryside. All rooms are individually decorated, with the ground floor rooms being designed in the contemporary style, and the upstairs in a country home style. All are comfortably furnished, with handcrafted beds and Henderson Russell Furniture. Three rooms have French windows opening onto their own terrace, and one room has disabled facilities with a level wet room. All rooms come with breakfast included.

Tuddenham Mill is in an idyllic 12 acre rural setting near Newmarket and Cambridge. This traditional watermill has been refurbished sympathetically to offer its guests a luxurious stay coupled with a uniquely unforgettable experience. The Mill's fifteen rooms are the height of style with Italian designed, over-sized beds to ensure maximum comfort, complete with all modern requirements and facilities - including Bose sound systems and Loewe flat screen TVs. When dining, the menu features an exciting selection that reflects the chic yet rustic surroundings. Choose to eat in the bar with the water wheel, outside by the pond or upstairs where you will find the much sought-after window tables with views back up the Mill Stream. The hotel also has meeting and conference rooms for small parties, and a number of options available for intimate wedding celebrations of up to 60 guests, including a license for civil ceremonies.

Satis House Hotel & Restaurant (pictured above and below) in Yoxford is a fine 18th Century Grade II listed country house, set in three acres of parkland. Charles Dickens was a friend of the family who owned the house in 1812, and in his book, Great Expectations, defines the name of this curiously named building as being meaning "Whoever lives in the house could wish for nothing more." From the moment you enter the house and step onto the original York stone paving in the Entrance Hall, you realise that Satis House is a hotel with its own unique character. With an award winning AA 2 Rosette restaurant, beautiful gardens, comfortable rooms and exceptional, friendly service, guests at Satis House are sure to be inclined to agree with the famous author's remarks.

The Great House is a multi-award winning boutique hotel in the market place of the medieval village, Lavenham, offering high quality accommodation and outstanding food. The house was extensively renovated in the 18th Century, but from the outside has a distinctly Georgian appearance. It was turned it into its current form of a luxury boutique hotel with restaurant in 1985. The French cuisine found in the restaurant has a wonderful reputation, and the five en suite bedrooms (four of which have separate lounges) are light and elegant yet retain the undeniable charm of the house. A multitude of hidden delights include generous sized beds (including a Jacobean four-poster), a mini-bar, espresso machines, plasma screen television, wifi, hifi, hairdryers and ironing boards and the complimentary fruit and decanter of sherry offer a welcoming touch. In summer the French doors open onto a lovely stone-paved courtyard for drinks, lunch or dinner.