If you are looking for a scenic location, a little off the beaten path, on an estuary in Suffolk, then Iken Barns is the perfect place to spend your vacation. The barns are lovely and come in a wide variety of sizes and configurations.
Richard Johnson, who owns the property, came to the area to pig farm in 1983 and in 2002 decided to go from farming into hospitality. It is a good thing he decided to do that because he has created an amazing oasis here where you will have everything you need for a relaxing holiday. You can easily walk to the Snape Maltings for dining and shopping and historic St Botolph’s church is visible across the estuary. The property is now managed by Kate, when we were here his daughter Emma was the manager.
Richard Johnson, who owns the property, came to the area to pig farm in 1983 and in 2002 decided to go from farming into hospitality. It is a good thing he decided to do that because he has created an amazing oasis here where you will have everything you need for a relaxing holiday. You can easily walk to the Snape Maltings for dining and shopping and historic St Botolph’s church is visible across the estuary. The property is now managed by Kate, when we were here his daughter Emma was the manager.
We chose the Estuary Barn for a holiday. It is a second story unit with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. One bedroom is a double and one a twin. The main part of the unit is open concept with the living room, dining, and kitchen. There are three couches where you can cozy up to the gas stove and the TV. There are plenty of windows and soaring beamed ceilings. The heating is underfloor and it was quite comfortable.
The kitchen has everything you need for a comfortable stay with a dishwasher and washer/dryer in addition to the fridge/freezer and stove. Additionally, a crockpot, toaster, and microwave, as well as a French press and crockery, are offered. A balcony with a table off the back overlooks the estuary. The beds are warm and inviting and your every comfort has been provided for.
The only issue we had was that there is not enough soundproofing between the bedrooms and bathrooms. Sounds from one bathroom are all too clear in the other, the same for the bedrooms. Great for a family with children, not so great for adults. It certainly was not a deal breaker.
The only issue we had was that there is not enough soundproofing between the bedrooms and bathrooms. Sounds from one bathroom are all too clear in the other, the same for the bedrooms. Great for a family with children, not so great for adults. It certainly was not a deal breaker.
If you want a spa treatment in your unit, it can be arranged. There are also bicycles and horseback riding is also available. The units are decorated to a very high standard.
The street that the barns are located on is more of a lane and for timid drivers might be a challenge. There are pubs close by within a five-minute drive or in the summer an easy walk. The village of Snape is close by and there is a small store there. Saxmunden has a Waitrose which is a large grocery where you will find everything you need at reasonable prices.
This is a perfect location for visits to Ipswich, Colchester, Sutton Hoo, Framlingham Castle and some of the seaside resorts including Aldeburgh.
Kate will provide any information that you need as well as warm welcome. She should be around to offer advice or to help if have problems operating any of the appliances. The units have plenty of brochures if you run out of ideas for things to do. For the outdoor lover, good weather will provide abundant opportunities to enjoy nature. The views are stunning, that much I can attest to.
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