Why we love glamping in Suffolk

Nestled between the rivers Orwell and Deben, Felixstowe is a charming seaside town with a vibrant centre and wonderful mix of attractions, not least its South facing sun trap of a beach. The enormous container port isn't exactly in keeping with a bit of glamping in Suffolk, but it's easy enough to seek out more rural scenery. A little further north, the sand and shingle beach at Aldeburgh is one of the best known Suffolk beaches, and rumour has it that the town boasts the region’s finest fish and chips, although many others argue the case. Along the beachfront, you’ll find quirky historic buildings including a 400-year-old Moot Hall, a converted windmill, and a Norman church. The town also enjoys a vibrant art scene, with some quality galleries to peruse.

Continuing north, you find Dunwich and Covehithe beaches, two atmospheric strips of shingle and tufted dunes perfect for blustery walks that definitely ARE a big part of glamping in Suffolk. The former is owned and maintained by the National Trust and the latter is wonderfully unspoilt and also dog friendly. If you head for Covehithe, take everything you need, as part of the charm is that there are no facilities or shops of any kind.

Alton Water reservoir walk on Shotley Peninsula is great for beginners glamping in Suffolk, clocking in at just over seven miles. A simple saunter for a sunny day, it’s an easy route that won’t leave you too tired for a spot of wild swimming at the end. The Southwold to Walberswick walk is also a seven mile loop, but rated as moderate difficulty thanks to slightly trickier marshland terrain. The wetlands are home to many bird species, so please stay on the path as you might disturb nesting.

Aldeburgh to Thorpeness is another easy saunter for walking enthusiasts, with a route along the coast which takes in the stunning scenery that many come glamping in Suffolk for. Last but not least, Rendlesham Forest, famous for its UFO sightings back in the 80s, has two signposted circular walks. This large and lush patch of paradise is great for den building, exploring, and losing yourself in tranquility. There's a guided UFO trail too, taking you into the greenery with an eye out for little green men.

Suffolk's food scene has flourished in recent years, with a major food festival taking place in Aldeburgh in late September that's worth timing your glamping in Suffolk for. At other times of year, you'll have to make do with just a wealth of great pubs, cafes, delis and restaurants. The Old Cannon Brewery at Bury St Edmunds dates back to before World War I, with celebrated in-house-brewed ales that make it one of the most beloved pubs in Suffolk.

The Queen’s Head at Blyford is a historical pub and restaurant that uses fantastic local suppliers, to create a seasonal, home grown menu of classic comfort food as well as a mean wood-fired pizza. The Ramsholt Arms at Woodbridge, is another one popular with anyone glamping in Suffolk, for fresh, locally caught seafood during the week, and smoky barbecue blowouts at weekends. The Unruly Pig, another Woodbridge favourite, was winner of the Good Pub Guide’s 2021 Dining Pub of the Year award and you'd best book ahead.

If you'd rather eat in, Suffolk Food Hall is an award-winning farm shop at Wherstead in Ipswich. There’s homemade gelato, coffee and cakes, a health and beauty studio, and even a giant bouncy pillow to keep little (and big) kids entertained. A firm family favourite and a great place to stock up.

Set in 14 acres of award-winning gardens, Bury St Edmunds Abbey was once one of the richest, largest, and most powerful Benedictine monasteries in England and a great place to wander if you like your glamping in Suffolk a little more laid back. Christchurch Mansion in Ipswich is another of Suffolk’s treasured buildings and the beautiful red brick Tudor house boasts over 500 years of history and art including works by Gainsborough and Constable. At Sutton Hoo near Woodbridge however, there's something special that goes back even further. The remains of an anglo-saxon ship were found at the site in 1939, in what was one of the most spectacular archaeological discoveries of all time. This glorious and ghostly site, impeccably maintained by the National Trust, is a great way to mix a little history into the beaches and food of a good time glamping in Suffolk.

What is glamping?

Glamping in Suffolk allows you to enjoy some of the wildest locations in the region, getting you out into nature without the need for much more than a day bag. Our unique glamping spaces combine creature comforts and remote locations with special touches like wood-fired hot tubs, firepits and creative curiosities to make truly memorable holidays.

How do we choose our places?

At Canopy & Stars, we look for creative, characterful spaces set within some of the UK’s most breathtaking natural scenery. Our accommodation choices are eclectic, from gypsy caravans and wooden shepherd’s huts, to charming treehouses and luxurious converted barns. Each one has been built by people passionate about welcoming you to their little corner of the outdoors.

Why book with Canopy & Stars

We have personally inspected every place in our collection to make sure that it will give you a special stay. That means that our Guest Experience team has the knowledge to help you pick the perfect place for you, from a romantic escape to a big reunion or a European road trip. Plus we're nice! If you have any problems with your booking, we'll always do what we can to make sure you don't lose out.

About Canopy & Stars

Canopy & Stars is an independent travel company that launched in 2010. We're majority employee owned and part-owned by a charitable trust, which we established to support climate change organisations - a cause close to our hearts, as our company owes so much to the natural world. We treat our guests, employees, suppliers, and accommodation owners with fairness and respect. Check out our about us page to find out more about how we work.