Retreat East

Countryside retreat in the heart of Suffolk

Retreat East is a getaway accommodation located in the Suffolk countryside, in the east of England, occupying a converted former dairy farm. The complex presents itself as a sustainable haven and welcomes guests with dogs. Its offering combines accommodation in restored barns, spa, restaurant, gym and outdoor activities, and can be booked either individually or as part of packages for events such as weddings and corporate retreats.

Accommodation in historic barns

The accommodation is spread across 28 barns and rooms, converted from an original 16th-century farm. Capacity varies: there are units for two guests with one bedroom, two-bedroom barns for four people and a four-bedroom farmhouse for eight. The company states that it has more than 18 barns and that stays can be booked online or by phone. The offering is aimed at both romantic weekend getaways and larger groups.

Spa and wellbeing

The spa has its own therapists and a treatment menu that includes body, face, hands and feet categories. The company notes that it has more than 20 treatments available and offers experiences such as spa days, bespoke occasions and packages. It also offers in-barn treatments for guests staying at the complex.

Restaurant and local produce

The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon tea and cocktails, and is open seven days a week. The kitchen is based on what is grown in the complex's organic kitchen garden and is complemented by produce from local artisan suppliers in Suffolk. The company describes its restaurant as award-winning and also hosts seasonal food events.

Activities and natural surroundings

Available activities include cycling, axe throwing, archery, gym, Nordic walking and yoga, among others. The Suffolk surroundings allow for walks along country lanes, cycle trails and coastal strolls, as well as discovering shops in nearby villages. The complex presents itself as a place to rest or to stay active depending on the guest's preference.

Private events and weddings

Retreat East is offered as a space for events of all sizes, including weddings, product launches, team away days, private and corporate events. The company states that it takes care of catering and accommodation, and highlights its connections to London and Stansted Airport. For weddings, the complex is set in 35 acres of organic countryside and wildflower meadows, with a restored farm as the backdrop, and offers options from intimate celebrations to large weddings with customisation of every detail.

Sustainability and other services

Sustainability is presented as a central pillar: the organic kitchen garden supplies the restaurant and the farm shop, and the complex has energy and water conservation systems. In addition, the shop offers gift packages, spa treatments, afternoon tea and a range of Loggique brand spa products, such as diffusers, scented candles and moisturisers. There are also gift vouchers redeemable for accommodation, treatments or the restaurant, and a limited-edition own gin, Retreat East Suffolk gin. The company publishes a monthly newsletter with featured activities.

Location and contact

Brick Kiln Farm Sandy Lane Hemingstone IP6 9QE · Phone: 01449 760480 · Email: reception@retreateast.co.uk