Set in two acres of land, with stunning views of the estuary and adjoining farmland, the barns are an ideal holiday location for families with children, walkers, birdwatchers and those who just want a peaceful holiday.

In a spectacular location overlooking the Blyth estuary, Whitehouse Barns were converted by their owner, award-winning architect Richard Griffiths, into two elegant holiday homes in 2001.

This area holds many treats for birdwatchers and ornithologists. Many rare birds can be seen from the windows — in 2003 these included resident little owls, barn owl, woodpecker and avocets, and an occasional osprey. Bitterns breed in the Hen Reedbeds Reserve close by and otters are known to frequent the River Blyth. Marsh Harriers, kestrels and herons are also often seen in the area. Much of the area around the barns is either National Nature Reserve managed by English Nature, or Suffolk Wildlife Trust reserves. The Blyth estuary adjacent to Whitehouse Barns is designated under the RAMSAR treaty as an internationally important wetland and a Special Protection Area (SPA) while the whole area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) within the Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Just four miles from sandy beaches at Walberswick and the elegant town of Southwold, the barns are also ideally situated for exploring the Suffolk Heritage Coast, Minsmere Bird Sanctuary and Aldeburgh. Hidden down a quiet track with just four other cottages nearby, the situation is extremely peaceful without feeling isolated.

The fabulous sunsets and changing view of the estuary and mudflats are breathtaking in any season. Sunny in summer, and very cosy in winter with full underfloor central heating throughout, wood-burning stoves, insulation and double glazing, the barns are suitable for long holidays or short breaks throughout the year.

The barns are furnished to a high standard in an elegant modern style with most furnishings bought new in 2001. There is ample parking. By car the barns are 2 to 3 hrs drive from London.

Upper Barn includes:

• Ground floor:
  • A spacious open-plan living/dining/kitchen area with French windows to morning and evening terraces, dishwasher, electric cooker, fridge, microwave, colour TV, wood burning stove (initial logs included) and underfloor heating.
  • Separate entrance hall.
  • Bathroom with wc.
  • Separate wc.
  • Double bedroom (5ft bed).
  • Single bedroom.
  • Utility room with washing machine, tumble drier and freezer shared with other barn.
  • Telephone.
• First floor:
  • Twin bedroom with sloping roof and rooflight.
  • Gallery.

Sleeps up to 5 plus cot or folding bed on request. Booking period normally Friday to Friday.  

The two barns can be booked jointly for parties of up to thirteen people. The double doors between the barns will be unlocked to allow free access. For larger parties there is also the option of hiring the on-site caravan in summer. Please ask for details.

Disabled access: We regularly accommodate disabled visitors - please ask for access details.

Couples: We offer reductions for couples and singles mid week.