Gabriels Place - Walsham le Willows, Suffolk, England

One of the big benefits of Gabriels Place is that it is priced for a couple but has the advantage of a Suffolk Landing which is a like a hall room where there are 2 additional beds, ideal for a third adult or up to two children who can be accomodated at no extra cost.

Gabriels Place has a spacious 'back to the bare bones' feel about it where all the original beams are exposed from the walls right up into the roof rafters and high quality oak joinery has be used to create impressive open staircases, modern Kitchen areas and architectural features. This with its lovely cosy fire and massive comfy sofa make an interesting and characterful atmosphere that it still very cosy. Please note anyone with feather allergies, this is not the cottage for you as the sofa and soft furnishings have feather stuffing.

There is even a piano in the sitting room which is a family friend who has come to the end of the line but is happy in this quiet corner of Suffolk and so it sits happily untuned but still loved.

The pretty kitchen diner is fully equipped to produce any kind of menu and there is a useful utility room with washer / dryer machines downstairs and a stylish shower room.

The designer staircase leads straight onto a Suffolk landing with an open room to one side where there are two single beds (one under the other when not in use). This guest room is useful for a third person or a child or two. A modesty screen is provided to give some privacy.

The main bedroom is bright and airy with two windows to catch the sun most of the day and a skylight in the high vaulted ceiling. There is a pleasant open airy en-suite bathroom.

The floors upstairs are made from the most wonderful original old broad elm wood I have seen.

Gabriel's Place is set back from the road with a parking area in front of it, it has no proper garden but there is a sunny small patio garden where you can breakfast or slowly make up your mind which wine to drink with the Sunday papers.

The owner of Gabriel's Place is an Architect who believes passionately that our lives (including our holiday lives) should be as sustainable as possible and with this in mind the cottage is insulated to the highest possible standards, given its age and construction, AND he has invested in solar water heating by www.solarworks.co.uk so that you will be able to bathe in the very lovely bath tub and wash the dishes in water that has been at very worst, preheated by the sun OR at best completely heated by the sun.

It really is a good feeling to lounge in the bath and know that this is possible as a result of a very netural and sustainable process...enjoy.

This cottage will appeal to those who want to have a peaceful stylish break away from the stresses of modern life, just look at the images of the village, it looks more like a collection of farms and ancient buildings rather than a village but everything is on your doorstep, from provisions to a very decent wine merchants and friendly pubs.

The location makes Gabriels Place ideal for visiting Bury St Edmunds, Cambridge and the unspoilt Suffolk Coast.

There are beautiful local walks and bikes are provided to explore the surrounding countryside and its maze of tiny lanes.

Changeover Day: Flexible

Check availability and prices on the cottage web site http://www.grove-cottages.co.uk/