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Dedham has everything you need for a replenishing holiday surrounded by idyllic unspoiled English countryside. Being in the heart of the village in a tranquil courtyard just across from the historic St. Mary’s church, you are steps away from two world-class gastro pubs, a lovely contemporary café and a traditional tearoom. Once you are parked you could spend your holiday completely car-free because we are within walking distance from a well-stocked Co-op grocery shop, locally-sourced butchers, pharmacy and lots of gift shops. On special occasions you can treat yourselves to a delicious meal in the Michelin guide awarded Sun Inn next door and at Christmas you can stroll across the High Street for Midnight Mass, which is always welcoming for all to attend. Throughout the year you can enjoy brisk walks along to the River Stour, and retrace John Constable’s steps along the banks to Flatford Mill, scene of the infamous Willy Lott’s House of “The Hay Wain”.

Enjoy the serenity of the tranquil millponds before walking back to Dedham via East Bergholt and back down the hill for breathtaking views of Dedham Vale.

The Hall Farm Shop has fabulous food and wine. The café and trail are also a wonderful day out for people of all ages. There’s Dilly the Digger to clamber on, and be sure to look out for the Hall Farm tyre monster! For those a little less energetic, there are lovely spots to stop and stare, relax, and take in the beautiful Dedham Vale surroundings. Entry to the farm trail is free, but you might wish to buy some animal food from the shop before you set out on your walk. The geese are particularly partial to the bread chunks!

Listed as the 11th best zoo in the world and number 3 in the top 10 zoos in the UK as part of the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Attractions. During your visit to Colchester Zoo you will see many species from around the world and can learn more about them at our fantastic daily encounters, giving you the chance to see our animals being fed, watch a training session or perhaps just quiz their keepers!

Located in Britain’s first city, Colchester Castle was the first of the great keeps and the largest built by the Normans in Europe. It was constructed on the foundations of the Temple of Claudius, built when Colchester was the first Roman capital of Britain. A visit to Colchester Castle is better than ever before with interactive displays and star exhibits, like the Colchester Vase and Fenwick Treasure. Visit the museum to have a go at building a Norman archway, excavating a Roman doctor’s grave or steering a chariot. Be wowed as a large scale ‘son et lumière’ projection transforms the east wall with light and sound. Expert-led tours down into the Roman vaults and up onto the panoramic Castle roof can also be booked.

Jump Street Trampoline Parks offer kids activities, adult fitness classes, special needs sessions and toddler sessions. Check the timetable to see what’s on.

Visit the awe-inspiring Anglo-Saxon royal burial site that was featured in the recent film “The Dig”

Book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Frinton-on-Sea is dog friendly from September to May and a pleasant 30-minute drive away. Neighbouring Walton-on-the-Naze is also really lovely.

is just an hour away and a wonderful mix of family fun, music and drama, fine eating and drinking, sailing and shopping – something for everyone in the friendliest atmosphere you’ll wish to find on the Suffolk Heritage Coast.

beach is just a bit further on and definitely worth the drive. Southwold is a charming north Suffolk seaside town on the Suffolk Heritage Coast. Almost an island, being bounded by the North Sea to the East, by the River Blyth and Southwold harbour to the South–West and by Buss Creek to the North, there is just the one road in to and out of Southwold, approached through neighbouring Reydon.