Discover the History of Suffolk

The Tide Mill, Woodbridge

Our Woodbridge holiday homes are set in an area full of character and history - winding lanes are surrounded by fine medieval timbered cottages, Georgian townhouses and a mixture of cosy pubs, independent shops, boutiques, delicatessens and bookshops. Yet a trip to Woodbridge would not be the same without visiting the riverfront and the charming Tide Mill. The Tide Mill is considered by locals to be a symbol of Woodbridge and the River Deben - reflecting its history and character. The building is perhaps one of the earliest Tide Mills in the UK. First recorded in 1170 where it was operated by Augustinian Canons, it eventually passed to King Henry VIII and in 1564 to Thomas Seckford. Amazingly it was the last working Tide Mill in the UK, the wheel last turning in 1957. Today the restored large white timber mill has been an inspiration for artists and photographers. The interior has been preserved and is open to the public from May to October.

Sutton Hoo

Sutton Hoo, located near our Woodbridge properties off the B1083, is a group of Anglo-Saxon burial mounds overlooking the River Deben, situated on a 91-hectare estate. Visitors can walk around these ancient royal burial sites and discover the vital importance of this site to the heritage of England. There is an exhibition hall for visitors and self-guided and weekend guided tours of the burial site on offer. Events take place all year round and guests can visit the Edwardian estate house too!

Moot Hall, Aldeburgh

From our Aldeburgh holiday homes visitors can enjoy the fascinating history of the Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. If you are looking for a bit of Suffolk history a self-catering holiday Aldeburgh is just the thing. Find this trendy resort just off the A12, just south of our Thorpeness cottages.

On the Aldeburgh seafront you can find The Moot Hall, known originally as the Town Hall. The Moot Hall was built in the first half of the 16th century during a period of prosperity for Aldeburgh that lasted 150 years when the town emerged as a major port. After this Aldeburgh's prosperity gradually declined as a series of violent storms destroyed many buildings and war and disease led to a declining population and rising poverty. However it was during the 1800's that titled families began to recognise Aldeburgh as a place for sea-bathing and 'good air', preferring it to the crowded beaches of the South Coast. Originally The Moot Hall served as the Council Chamber and prisons and was also the focus for the town market; today it is home to a fascinating museum and has is an iconic Aldeburgh building, loved by visitors and residents alike. It is of course also home to our Aldeburgh cottages!