This one-of-a-kind retreat is sure to be one of the quirkiest holiday homes you’ve ever encountered. With more than an architectural nod to its origins, it features large chapel windows, beautiful carpentry and even two box pews – all lovingly restored to create a characterful couples’ haven in the heart of Constable Country.
Part of what was once the United Reformed Church in this South Suffolk village, this quirky property is one of the most sympathetic chapel conversions you’ll come across; its original layout and features have been lovingly preserved and complemented by all the modern must-haves. A large entrance hall complete with a grand piano leads into an open-plan room where there’s a comfortable sitting area with a Smart TV and, for versatility, a sofa bed. Adjacent is a dining suite and then a contemporary kitchen housing all the self-catering essentials, with a shower room completing the ground-floor layout. Upstairs, there’s a second peaceful sitting area and a sanctuary-like bedroom with a super-king-size bed that can be made up instead as two singles – just let us know which option you’d prefer when you book your stay. Two box pews boost the quirky credentials of the first floor; one is a small dressing area and the other – the ‘loo in the pew’ – is an en-suite cloakroom. The entire apartment is bathed in light but remote-controlled blackout blinds cover the large church window to assure a good night’s sleep.
A small seating area within the grounds of the chapel is available to use by prior arrangement, but you’ll definitely want to explore Nayland. This pretty village in the Stour Valley has a wealth of timber-framed buildings and a friendly local pub and stores, while footpaths across the countryside lead to Stoke-by-Nayland, less than 2 miles away. Both villages sit within Dedham Vale, an AONB that inspired famous artists including John Constable, Thomas Gainsborough and Sir Alfred Munnings. Drive through this lovely landscape to the small riverside town of Mistley (13 miles). In the 18th century, plans were developed to turn it into a saltwater spa and two reminders of this failed scheme remain: a swan fountain and the neo-classical Mistley Towers.