Log cabin holidays – All the benefits of a country cottage with loads of extras.

Windmill lodges are a select group of seven, purpose built log cabin holiday lodges, located in the glorious Suffolk countryside, just outside the old market towns of Woodbridge and Framlingham. The 4 and 5 star luxury log cabins are arranged around a private catch and release fishing lake, and just like country cottages, come fully furnished to a very high standard. They are built with modern bathroom suites and fitted kitchens which are stocked with all the utensils you’ll need to fully enjoy your break. Under floor heating and gas log effect fires make them extremely snug ensuring that they will appeal to everyone from couples looking for romantic weekend getaways, to larger families looking for longer stays of a week or more. Windmill Lodges log cabin holidays offer all the benefits of Suffolk cottage holidays with loads of extras.

Enjoy a log cabin holiday break in the UK with Windmill Lodges - click here to find out more

Country cottages or log cabins set deep in the heart of Suffolk’s beautiful and rural countryside, offer the chance to escape the busy working week and relax properly, knowing that there are no deadlines to meet and no phones to answer or emails to read. In a Suffolk country cottage or log cabin, your time is your own, to do with what you will. There is no set time for breakfast so you can lie in for as long as you wish, there’s no menu for lunch or dinner, so you can choose exactly what you want to eat and when to eat it. Best of all, there’s no itinerary for the day, so you can do as you please and go wherever you want.


You may wish to go for long romantic walks in the Suffolk countryside. You could go early in the morning as the mist and dew are clearing from the heaths and woodlands or during the day as the temperatures rise and the air fills with the sweet scent of flowers and birdsong. There can be nothing nicer or more romantic than meandering along one of the county’s gently winding roads or taking a walk along one of its many bridle paths, enjoying the peace and quiet of some truly idyllic surroundings and all the time knowing, you’ve nothing to rush back for. Before long you’ll find your natural walking pace has slowed to a gentle stroll and you’ll be taking the time to notice even the smallest detail. You’ll wish you had a camera, holidays like these are the reason many people get hooked on photography.

The kids will enjoy their walks in the country too; there is so much for them to see, particularly at this time of year. Spring is sprung and the birds and animals are looking to find mates and build nests together. This is the time when nature is at its busiest so there’s a lot to see, if you know where to look. Challenge them to see how many different types of bird they can spot or take photos of the wild flowers so you can have fun naming them later. Don’t pick them though; many wild flowers are protected under the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act so you run the risk of getting in trouble if you do.

Whilst out on your travels you may happen upon one of Suffolk’s old country inns. You’ll find them dotted all over the place, serving a fine selection of bitters and real ales, many of which will be locally produced. The Adnams Brewery Company supplies many a Suffolk tavern as does Greene King but there are many other, much smaller local brewers besides, each producing their own peculiar tastes. The quality of the food on offer at many of these establishments is very good and the menus are often filled with local organic produce, why not stop for a while for a bite to eat and quench your thirst.

If you prefer to cook for yourselves, you can always pick the ingredients up en-route and take them back to your holiday cottage for a barbecue. Once back at your log cabin, you can fire up the barbecue and set the table for an al-fresco meal while the kids go for a swim or play around by the lake. They may even want to jump straight in to the hot tub before dinner. Each of our 7 log cabin lodges comes complete, with its own private high spec hot tub. These are great fun for the kids to splash around in and after the kids have gone to bed, they’re great fun for the adults too. Is there anything more romantic than relaxing alone together in your own, private hot tub whilst sipping on a glass of sparkles? If you left it till a bit later, perhaps until nightfall after the kids have gone to bed, you could enjoy the hot tub and wine experience while looking out for constellations in the night’s sky. Now that’s romantic!

Our log cabins are as well equipped, warm and luxurious as some of the best country cottage accommodation. While staying at Windmill Lodges, you also get the benefit of your own private hot tub, our indoor heated swimming pool (Easter – October only) and a private catch and release fishing lake on site. If you want to find out more, click here to view details of our luxury log cabin accommodation

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While you are here, spend the day at one of Suffolk’s local seaside gems

Windmill Lodges is an award winning, exclusive development of 7 luxurious log cabins which are available to rent for log cabin holidays. Erected in a wide arc around a private catch and release fishing lake to which every resident has access, each of our log cabins looks out over the lake presenting a quite beautiful view both in the mornings as dawn breaks and in the evenings as dusk falls. The log cabins are heated via under floor heating and by a gas log effect fire and come equipped with modern bathroom suites and fitted kitchens which are well stocked with all the utensils you will need for an enjoyable log cabin holiday. Each holiday lodge also comes with its own BBQ facilities and a veranda for relaxed al-fresco dining as well as its own, private, outdoor, high spec hot tub. There is also a heated pool for residents use only which is open from Easter through to October.

Windmill Lodges is situated in the heart of the Suffolk countryside, amid beautifully unspoilt surroundings, close to the old market towns of Framlingham and Woodbridge. The development is also within a short drive of Suffolk’s heritage coast and some of the most charming resort locations the south-eastern corner of the British Isles has to offer. From here you can easily access such seaside gems as Southwold and Walberswick, Thorpeness, Aldeburgh and Orford. Read on for ideas on places to visit whilst staying at Windmill Lodges in our luxury log cabin accommodation
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A day in Southwold

From your lodge, head east on the B1119, then turn left onto the A1120 which will take you to the A12. Stay on this road until you see the signs for the A1095 and Southwold. Once in Southwold, find somewhere to park the car, as you won’t need it for the rest of the day. Any trip to Southwold would be wasted if it did not involve at least a cursory visit to the Adnams Brewery Co and associated shop. Informative trips around the brewery are scheduled on a regular basis and generally start at 1030 and 1300hrs. At £10.00 per head they offer a fascinating insight into the art of brewing as practised in days gone by and a look at how times and brewing techniques have changed over the years.

After the tour why not take time to wander the streets of this beautiful resort town and peruse the local shops?  Unlike other tourist resorts, you’ll not find too many brightly coloured plastic brick-a-brac stores, instead you’ll find lovely little boutiques,  antique shops and art galleries, as well as delightful café's serving up delicious home-made and mainly organic, local foods. Check out the lighthouse and the colourful beach huts, the award-winning pier and busy harbour. Several cannons line the cliff top pointing directly out to sea to ward off any potential invaders.

A day in Walberswick

From your log cabin head east on the B1119, turn left onto the A1120 which will take you to the A12. Stay on this road until you see the signs for the B1387 and Walberswick. The village is a walker’s delight. There is a well trodden path that takes you on a looping route around Southwold harbour and into the marshlands which are designated an area of outstanding natural beauty.

A walk like that in the bracing sea air and you are bound to work up a healthy appetite. No diets here, it’s time for some hearty pub grub. There are two to choose from; The Anchor and The Bell, and they both serve up just the kind of food you could do with after a brisk walk. After your meal you could wander round the town perusing the shops. You’ll find an art gallery and a number of original craft and gift shops.

Walberswick is also well known for crabbing. Children (and adults) can fish for crabs using string with hooks and bits of bacon from a bridge. Most years (although not in 2011) there is an annual crabbing competition here where people see how many of these delightful crustaceans they can catch before throwing them back in the water!

A day in Thorpeness

From your lodge head east on the B1119, following the signs to Framlingham, to Saxmundham and Leiston. At Leiston turn right onto the B1122, then left onto the B1353 and follow the signs to Thorpeness. You’ll know you’ve reached Thorpeness because all of a sudden, the architecture changes.

Driving into Thorpeness is rather like driving into a fairytale. The houses are, for the most part identical but very different to anything else you will have seen elsewhere. A mix of mock Tudor and Jacobean architecture, they really are “fantastic” in the true sense of the word. The fantasy doesn’t end there either; the water tower has been converted and now stands as a house on stilts. Known as the “house in the clouds” it is a truly remarkable sight, as is the Thorpeness’ Windmill. This Grade II listed building has no actual use, it is no longer a working mill, nor is it officially classed as a residential property, it is simply a landmark.

The “meare” at Thorpeness is a large man-made lake and the ideal spot for a leisurely picnic to round off your day. At just 1 metre deep but covering 64 acres, it has a number of islands that you can visit by boats which are available to hire.

A day in Aldeburgh

From your log cabin head east on the B1119, following the signs to Framlingham, Saxmundham and Leiston. At Leiston turn right onto the B1122, then left onto the A1094 and follow this into Aldeburgh. Upon arrival in Aldeburgh, find somewhere to park because you won’t need the car until much later on. Aldeburgh has a truly fascinating history, it was once one of the largest ports on the east coast and famed for its boat building. Sir Francis Drake captained two vessels that were built in the area and many local men sailed with him on his voyages.

The town of Aldeburgh is synonymous with the Aldeburgh music festival at Snape Maltings. Started by the composer Benjamin Britten in 1948, it was set up to support young artists of every musical persuasion. His legacy continues to thrive today and Aldeburgh Music now has a worldwide reputation as an outstanding year-round performance centre. The June festival attracts performers from all over the world and from all musical backgrounds.

Aldeburgh is a lovely seaside town with a boating lake for model yachts and an impressive 16th Century Moot Hall which is the principal landmark and serves as a local museum. Plenty of quaint independent shops sell arty and crafty things as well as the everyday essentials and there’s always somewhere to go for ice-cream.

A day in Orford

From your lodge head east on the B1119, at Framlingham take the B1116 signed to Parham. At the junction with the A12, take the B1078 and follow this onto the B1064 which will lead you into Orford. Once in Orford find a nice spot to park the car since you won’t need it for the rest of the day.

Orford is one of the prettiest villages on the Suffolk coast. Once a thriving sea port, the waters have since silted up leaving it quiet with a relaxed feel. The rivers Alde and Ore flow gently passed the village and many local fishermen still moor their boats there.

Across the water, Orford Ness is the largest vegetated shingle spit in Europe and nearby Havergate Island is a favourite haunt of the avocet with its distinctive colouring and curved beak.

Orford Castle, Orford Museum and Orford Ness are must sees during any trip to Orford. The 12th Century castle keep which is all that remains of the castle is under the care of English Heritage and there is a fascinating museum on site which is popular with visitors.

Orford Ness is a nature reserve managed by the National Trust and nearby Havergate Island is a bird sanctuary in the care of the RSPB

Click here to view our luxury UK holiday rental accommodation in Suffolk, East Anglia

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Luxury Log Cabin Holiday Accommodation Close to Framlingham in Suffolk

Windmill Lodges is the ideal location for a relaxing holiday in Suffolk. If you want to get away for it all for a long weekend, mid week break or longer holiday and like self catering holiday accommodation, you will love Windmill Lodges! As luxurious as a Suffolk holiday cottage (maybe more so) and close to nature, or log cabins with private hot tubs are just the tonic to unwind, relax and restore.


Spotlight on Framlingham and the surrounding area

Just 2 miles from Windmill Lodges, Framlingham is a wonderfully picturesque and historic market town which boasts a stunning 12th Century curtain walled castle as well as lots of quaint little shops and it has an olde worlde charm that will have you buying postcards, not just for your friends but to keep as pictorial reminders of your visit.

As chocolate box as it is, Framlingham still has all the local amenities you would expect from a thriving and busy little town. There is a supermarket, a chemist, a newsagent and bakery, as well as a post office and a petrol station. On Tuesdays and Saturdays every week, a small market is held in the town square and it is to the town square that the locals come, to frequent the pubs, cafes and restaurants.

Here are some suggestions on things you might like to do whilst staying at Windmill Lodges near Framlingham.

Entertainments for children

Just try to keep the kids away from Framlingham Castle! It’s incredible, even to adults and to children, it is simply magical. It is stories of princesses locked in towers, of gallant knights who fought courageous battles against huge armies and fire breathing dragons. It is King Arthur and Robin Hood; it is Queen Guinevere and Maid Marion. To children Framlingham Castle is all these things and much more, it’s a history lesson and a lesson in culture but above all else, it’s a great day out.

Not far from Framlingham and walking distance from our log cabins is Saxtead Green Post Mill. It was a corn mill and dates back to the late 13th Century but the really cool thing about it is that its whole body revolves on its base. Although it doesn’t mill anything anymore; (milling stopped in 1947), it is still in working order. You can climb the stairs to a number of floors that are filled with fascinating mill machinery and an audio tour will tell you all about it.

Entertainment for the whole family

If you’d like to go out for a meal together one evening, you could pop along to The Crown in Framlingham. They serve up lovely lunches and dinners in stylish surroundings and have a good range of beers and locally produced wines to accompany your meal. The Shawsgate and Oak Hill vineyards are close proximity and both have recently won prestigious awards for their wines. You could even go for a tour around the vineyards and wine tasting.

Another great eatery in Framlingham is The Station pub/restaurant. Here you are assured a most enjoyable night out. The consistently high quality of the food here has given them a great reputation that has endured and increased over the years. The key to their success is simple, high quality, locally sourced fresh produce prepared by accomplished professional chefs and with Aspall’s Cyder orchards just seven miles from the hotel, there’s something nice to wash it all down with. Trips to the orchards and Cyder House can also be arranged if required.

Foodies are spoiled for choice in Framlingham with everything from fine dining to European style cafe. Check out The Lemon Tree Bistro and Kitty’s, The Dancing Goat. If you’d rather a home cooked meal, Framlingham hosts a market every Tuesday and Saturday morning, where you can buy from local producers to cook up a feast back at your lodge. Whilst visiting the market, stop off at the tiny Over the Moon outdoor café where the waffles and crepes come highly recommended.

Click here to book your luxury log cabin holiday stay near Framlingham in Suffolk.

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Holidays in Suffolk - Luxury Log Cabin Accommodation Near Woodbridge

Holidays in Suffolk – Luxury Log Cabin Accommodation Near Woodbridge

Windmill Lodges is a development of luxury log cabin holiday accommodation based in the beautiful county of Suffolk. If you are looking for a rural holiday in Suffolk, we offer four and five star accommodation, equipped to as a high a standard as a holiday cottage, but with all of the tranquillity that comes with being so close to nature.

Just 13 miles from Woodbridge, one of the county's most picturesque market towns, our log cabins can be hired for short breaks, weekend breaks or full weeks.

Click here to browse our luxurious holiday log cabin accommodation near Woodbridge in Suffolk

Spotlight on Woodbridge and the surrounding area

Woodbridge with its many interesting and historic buildings is situated on the banks of the river Deben and is always bustling with activity, offering many traditional and independent shops as well as idyllic riverside walks with picturesque views. Here are some things to do whilst staying at Windmill Lodges near to Woodbridge in Suffolk

Entertainment for children

Take a trip to Easton Farm Park. There’s loads of fun to be had there, the kids can ride on the backs of ponies or in carts, learn harnessing, pat the pets in pets corner, meet a really big Suffolk Punch cart horse, go on train rides and watch the lambs and pigs feeding. There are heated play areas and a café that serves up delicious home-made food and cakes.

Take a walk around the ancient burial mounds of Sutton Hoo and discover the incredible story of a buried Anglo-Saxon ship, the King and his treasured possessions. There is an award-winning exhibition, a fully reconstructed burial chamber and some great replica treasures. There is even an actual prince's sword.

Here at Windmill Lodges, we have our own heated covered swimming pool which is open from Easter to October which you are welcome to use but if you fancy a change, or it is out of season, you could visit the Deben swimming pool. The pool is open for various public swimming and family fun sessions and they also offer canoe courses which are great fun. At Deben they also run day camps, which include crabbing, arts and crafts, sports, swimming and much more.

About 17 miles from Windmill Lodges or three quarters of an hour by car, you’ll find Orford Castle with its unique polygonal tower keep. It stands guard over the pretty town and former port of Orford. The castle is remarkably intact allowing visitors to explore everywhere from the basement to the lower and upper halls and roof, from where there are some magnificent views of Orford Ness. Around the rooms is a maze of passages leading to the chapel, kitchen and other chambers in the turrets. You can take an audio tour of the castle to learn more about its history.

Entertainment for couples and groups of friends

Of course it depends what you are in to but there are loads of opportunities in Woodbridge and the surrounding area for sports of all kinds, from cycling to rowing and canoeing to karting and if you’re keen on fishing, you really don’t have to go far at all. At Windmill Lodges we have our very own well stocked catch and release fishing lake and all the equipment you’ll need from rods to nets and tackle.

If sport is not your thing then why not take a trip into town to check out some of Woodbridge’s fine watering holes? There aren’t any nightclubs but many of the pubs put on live music entertainment which is guaranteed to have you toes tapping and may even tempt you to dance. The Angel on Theatre Street has Wi-Fi, The Cherry Tree Inn on Cumberland St serves real ales and great food and both The Cross and Crown are well worth a look.

Nearby Ipswich is also well worth a visit, where you will find a wide choice of high quality restaurants, bars and cafés in the trendy marina area and on St Nicholas St. There is also Cardinal Park which offers a large cinema, nightclub and popular chain restaurants. The town has good shopping facilities, a museum and Christchurch park, where many concerts and events are held throughout the year.

Entertainment for the whole family

Woodbridge and the surrounding area was of extreme national importance during the last war and many reminders of this still exist to this day. The Bawdsey Radar and the museums at Bentwaters, Martlesham and Woodbridge are testament to that. WWII aside, there are many other fascinating places to visit in and around the town.

Buttrum's Mill for example, is one of England's finest tower windmills. It was built in 1836 by the famous Suffolk millwright John Whitmore and designed so that visitors and mill workers could climb the tall tower to view its elegant machinery and all four pairs of millstones. Here you can witness first hand, the old way of milling as all the old grinding equipment is still intact. You can also see how these techniques have changed over the years and see flour ground, using modern stone grinding machines.

Another fascinating place to visit is the Woodbridge Tide Mill. The Tide Mill is known as the symbol of Woodbridge and the River Deben and no visit to Woodbridge would be complete without at least a cursory look around inside. The mill may be one of earliest of its kind in England, dating back to 1170. In 1564, Queen Elizabeth I granted the mill to Thomas Seckford whose home “Seckford Hall” is just a short drive away.After it fell into disrepairit has since been fully refurbished and was opened to the public in 1975.

During the summer months you can climb aboard Woodbridge’s very own open topped bus. A daily ticket will entitle you to board and alight wherever there is a request stop sign in the certain knowledge that you will be picked up an hour later which gives you plenty of time to look around.

Other sites that are well worth a visit while you’re in the area are Dunwich Heath which is adjacent to Minsmere RSPB reserve, Foxborrow Farm, the RSPB Reserve on Havergate Island, Rendlesham Forest with its picnic areas, cycle ways and way marked walks and Daisy's Walk, a delightful short walk a few minutes' drive from Woodbridge.

The town boasts many fine restaurants serving traditional English fare as well as Indian, Chinese and Thai, So if you’re feeling like a treat and want to leave the cooking (and the washing up) to someone else, Woodbridge has something to suit every taste.

Woodbridge’s farmer’s markets are held regularly twice a month and supply a wealth of fresh seasonal foodstuffs including; fish, meat, poultry and game as well as fruits and vegetables, preserves and honey, fruit juices, beers and coffee, eggs and dairy products, cakes and desserts, plants, flowers, herbs and fresh bread.

Click here to book your stay in our luxury log cabin accommodation near Woodbridge, Suffolk

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