Things to do…

Fairstead is situated in over an acre of private (dog proof) grounds with plenty of room for a game of football, cricket or rounders. There is outdoor table tennis, a french boules area and a bbq and fire pit with plenty of outdoor seating. If you feel like venturing further afield there are many beautiful local towns to explore including, Halesworth, Beccels, Southwold and Walberswick to name a few.

Beaches

Take your pic from a wonderful selection of local beaches, all within a short drive. Go crabbing on the bridge at Walberswick, head to Southwold with its bustling town and ‘fun for all ages’ pier or head to the stunning Dunwich beach which is often much quieter (And has free parking!).

Beccles

A thriving market town steeped in history….the local saying goes, “If you can’t get it in Beccles, it’s not worth having”. Take your pic from the vintage shops, tea rooms or even take a dip in the Lido. There is also ‘The Big Dog Ferry’ which is a 3 mile boat trip from the Lido to The Locks Inn, the county pub - Dogs welcome (Boat & Pub)

RSPB Minsmere

RSPB Minsmere is a fantastic coastal nature reserve that's perfect for families. Discover nature together in the Wild Zone and Wild Wood Adventure area or head to the coastal lagoons to see the impressive variety of birds. Be sure to keep an eye on the reedbeds too. Maybe you'll catch a glimpse of a shy otter?

Thorington Theatre

Thorington Theatre is a stunning outdoor theatre in the middle of the forest with a wide and wonderful programme of events. There is a bar serving the best local beers, wine, juices and ice creams. You are welcome to take along your dogs and it has wheelchair access. It’s approx 15 mins drive from Fairstead.

Maize Maze

Southwold Maize Maze - Outdoor fun and adventure for all the family - Featuring a large outdoor play park with zip wire, trampolines and go karts plus a huge maze made out of, your guessed it, Maize! There is a wonderful cafe here and some stunning walks. There is usually a seasonal theme to the activities here.

Note - The play park is NOT dog friendly.

Walks

There are some fabulous walks right from the bottom garden gate which will take you across stunning fields and quiet country roads (maps at the house). You can also head to Dunwich Heath for 25 acres of beautiful heathland and coastline.

Fish & Chips

We have to recommend ‘Sole Bay’ in Southwold harbour for THE MOST delicious Fish & Chips. They have a restaurant you can dine in or you can grab a take away and sit and watch the fishing boats come in (a family favourite).

Southwold Pier

Fun for all ages - The pier has the usual arcade machines for young and old, fish and chips, ice creams and our favourite ‘The Under The Pier Show’ which features whacky inventions from the utterly eccentric world of Tim Hunkin’s machines.

Snape Maltings

Snape Maltings sits on the bank of the River Alde, surrounded by an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, just six miles from Aldeburgh. The beautiful heritage site, with its converted Victorian buildings, is home to independent shops, galleries and eateries, and several performance venues – including the world-famous Snape Maltings Concert Hall.

Foodie Spots

Not even sure where to begin here….we are spoilt by the most amazing delis/cafes/local producers….here are just a small selection:

HUSK, BlackDogDeli, Two Magpies, PINCH, The Unruly Pig, Filo & Twine, Folk&Fare, Fen Farm Dairy, ……………the list goes on and on and I’m sure you will enjoy discovering your own favourite spot!

Vineyards

Voted one of the ‘Top 10 Vineyards to visit in the UK’ and just 15mins away, Flint Vineyard is definitely worth a visit for the wine lovers! They vineyard is open Mon to Sat, 10-4, year round, and offers tours, tastings and a locally sourced light lunch. We are lucky to have Valley Farm Vineyard, home to the award winning ‘2015 Madeleine Angevine’ very close by (5 min drive) where wine tasting/tours and homemade pizza is on offer.

Local Pubs

There are some great local pubs in the area - we recommend The Star Inn at Whenaston, The Westleton Crown in Westleton, The Queens Head, Bramfield & The Queens Head, Blyford. Almost all pubs in the area are dog friendly. You could also take a trip to Southwold and visit Adnams brewery or head to St Peter’s Brewery, one of Englands original craft breweries.