Self-catering cottages and holiday accommodation around Flatford Mill - Constable Country on the Essex Suffolk border in England

Flatford Mill is the subject of one of John Constable's most famous paintings and the area around it is deservedly an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Flatford can be found about one mile south of East Bergholt, where John Constable was born. It's a popular area, especially during the summer when people arrive to walk beside the river Stour, or cycle, or join the ducks on the water in hired rowing boats.

The River Stour Trust run electric launch trips through Constable Country and Flatford Mill, every Sunday and Bank Holiday from Easter to early October. Telephone 01787 372602. John Constable (artist), the great, great grandson of John Constable landscape painter, is the current president of the Trust.

For self-catering cottages in Constable Country, click on Essex and Suffolk to find cottages in north Essex and south Suffolk which encompass Constable Country.

A view of Flatford Mill, Suffolk, from the footpath opposite

The footpath to Dedham in Suffolk - stay in a country cottage in Suffolk and really enjoy this scenic part of England

There are several walks in and around the area of the Stour Valley, suited to all abilities, and it's possible to walk to Dedham, or a little further to Stratford St. Mary. If you bring a picnic lunch, remember to bring something for the ducks that come to investigate what you're eating and the blackbirds and chaffinches also appreciate a crumb or two. country cottages in Suffolk and Constable Country - find luxury cottages, secluded and romantic cottages for your self-catering holiday.

country cottages in Suffolk and Constable Country - find luxury cottages, secluded and romantic cottages for your self-catering holiday.

The Tourist Board have a map displayed (shown on right) with the river and walks marked on it.

Bridge Cottage on the banks of the river near Flatford Lock and Constable Exhibition - take a self-catering holiday or short break in Suffolk to make the most of this beautiful area

There is a charming National Trust thatched tea and gift shop at Bridge Cottage at one end of the bridge should you come unprepared, where you will also find a Constable exhibition.

Short guided walks to view the sites that Constable painted are run every afternoon, Easter and May through to the end of September. There is a small charge for this and groups should book in advance.

The views all around are terrific and you will probably simply enjoy being there.

Strategically placed benches along the public footpath provide welcome opportunities to rest and gaze. You will find Flatford Mill and Willy Lott's house along from the lock towards the River Stour. There's also a granary museum should you feel the need to find out about farming in the past.

A small charge is levied for parking in the Flatford car park.


National Trust path through Miller's Field. and footpath to Cattawade and Stour Valley path	View from the Bridge

Cycle path to the left of the river and lock - perfect activity for your relaxing self-catering holiday in Constable Country, Suffolk

Flatford Lock with the foot/cycle path to the left.

Self-catering Holiday Cottages in Essex, Suffolk and Norfolk

Find lovely self-catering cottages and luxury country cottages in Suffolk to stay in whilst exploring Flatford and Constable Country, on the Essex and Suffolk border, using the menu on the left.

Click on the cockerel at the top left of the page to return to the Country Cottages home page and extra self-catering accommodation options at any time.

Cottage, sleeps 10 in Dedham, Essex/Suffolk border

Cottages with pool, sleep 2-8 in Constable Country, Tel: 01206 262261

The Granary (sleeps 6-8), near Manningtree in north Essex Tel: 01206 392166

Cottage owners add your cottage in Suffolk or Essex here?

Tel: 01245 425718