Read our guide of where to sleep in style across the region. The best boutique hotels in East Anglia for a weekend break.
With stretches of sandy coastline, stunning country landscapes and cool cities, East Anglia is perfect for a mini getaway. Whether you want to splash the cash or visit on a budget, we’ve rounded up the best boutique hotels in the region…
Best for a coastal retreat: Titchwell Manor
Titchwell, Nr Brancaster, Norfolk PE31 8BB
Tel: 01485 210221 | www.titchwellmanor.com
For a proper rural coastal Norfolk experience, head to Titchwell Manor. The hotel has a cosy intimate feel, the rooms are tastefully decorated and the staff welcoming. Even dogs are treated well here, staff are happy to offer treats to well behaved pups and the dog-friendly rooms in the outer building are spacious, stylish and have everything you need for your pooch. Nearby you’ll find footpaths leading to wind swept marshes and further afield wide sandy beaches. Your taste buds are in for a treat too as the hotel is owned by Eric Snaith; a Norfolk chef praised for his innovative dishes and use of local produce.
Best for a romantic getaway: The Crown Hotel
The Buttlands, Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk, NR23 1EX
Tel: 01328 710209 | www.crownhotelnorfolk.co.uk
A pure slice of luxury on the North Norfolk coast, the Crown Hotel has a range of rooms depending on your needs from cosy to family. For something extra special book the rooftop suite with its own terrace overlooking Wells and an outdoor freestanding copper bath! The restaurant has a changing menu of seasonal produce. Make the most of the county and indulge in the six course ‘Taste of Norfolk’ menu.
Best for couples: The Angel Hotel
Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP33 1LT
Tel: 01284 714000 | www.theangel.co.uk
Make this your base for exploring historic Bury St Edmunds. The hotel recently completed a huge refurbishment drawing interior inspiration from its connections with Charles Dickens. Spend your day wandering the cobbled streets of the market town, visiting bistros and independent stores. At night sip on signature cocktails at the hotel’s elegant bar and dine in the quirky styled restaurant.
Best for a seaside holiday: Le Strange Arms
Golf Course Road, Old Hunstanton, Norfolk, PE36 6JJ
Tel: 01485 534411 | www.lestrangearms.co.uk
There’s nothing quite like waking up to a sea view. Enjoy far reaching views over the horizon at this welcoming hotel located right on the beach in Old Hunstanton. Wander the immaculate lawns down to the private sandy beach. Rooms are comfortable, affordable and a great base for visiting Norfolk’s some best-loved attractions such as Sandringham House and Norfolk Lavender.
Best for a country escape: Holly Lodge Guest House
1 The Street, Thursford Green, Norfolk, NR210AS
Tel: 01328 878477 | www.hollylodgeguesthouse.co.uk
Created by the team behind the all singing, all dancing production of the Thursford Christmas Spectacular, this is the group’s first step into bed and breakfast industry. Rooms are housed in a 18th century converted stable block, each styled with a Norfolk country vibe; think contemporary woodland inspired interiors and plush soft furnishings. The dining and socialising areas in the main building are cool and chic, but retain that classic country charm. Hire a bike or walking equipment from the Lodge and explore a network of quiet lanes, farmers tracks and footpaths that surround the property.
Best for great food: The Cricketers
Wicken Road, Clavering, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB11 4QT
Tel: 01799 550442 | www.thecricketers.co.uk
Formerly owned by Jamie Oliver’s parents but now part of The Chestnut Group, there’s a warm welcome as soon as you enter, whether you’re there to dine, drink or check-in. The rooms are split between the pub, building next door and property opposite. There’s not much to do in the area but there are some lovely local walks so you can work up an appetite before tucking into a hearty meal at the pub. The historic market town of Saffron Walden is a 15 minute drive away.
Best for escaping the crowds: Blakeney Hotel
The Quay, Blakeney, Holt NR25 7NE
Tel: 01263 740797 | www.blakeney-hotel.co.uk
Positioned on the pretty Quay at Blakeney, this chic hotel is great for those looking to get away from it all and enjoy the great outdoors. Walk along the marshes to Cley, hop aboard a boat trip to see the seals, birdwatch and feast on delicious local seafood. The hotel itself has stylish and cosy rooms, a huge swimming pool, outdoor terrace and south face gardens.
Best for style: Tudenham Mill
High Street, Tuddenham, Newmarket, Suffolk IP28 6SQ
Tel: 01638 713552 | www.tuddenhammill.co.uk
This converted mill offers a selection of sleek and stylish rooms accompanied by a fine dining restaurant, which is a regular award winner! Rooms are exquisitely designed with the finest fluffy towels, quality bedding, walk-in showers or freestanding baths. Meadow rooms have great country views, while the nooks are a cute and romantic option, one even comes with its own outdoor hot tub! For something extra special book the loft suite! Tuddenham Mill is not too far from Newmarket Races, if you’re looking to make the most of your weekend break.
Best for a stylish city break: The Varsity Hotel & Spa
Thompson’s Lane, Cambridge CB5 8AQ
Tel: 01223 306030 | www.thevarsityhotel.co.uk/
Cool, contemporary and chic, this 44-room hotel ticks all the boxes for a city break. Sip cocktails on the roof terrace, dine at SIX with panoramic views of the city, relax in the spa or workout in the state-of-the-art gym – all this before you’ve even set foot outside. The hotel is in a prime location for walks along the Quay, enjoying the city’s parks, punting and shopping. At the end of the day return to your stylish room, order room service and fall to sleep in a huge, comfy bed!
Plan your trip with our guide of things to see and do in Cambridge
Best for exploring the Suffolk Coast: Wentworth Hotel
Wentworth Road, Aldeburgh, Suffolk IP15 5BD
Tel: 01728 452312 | www.wentworth-aldeburgh.com/
Long walks on the beach, fish and chips, local brews, shopping and arts, it’s all on the agenda in Aldeburgh. Located right on the seafront, a mere few steps from the crashing waves and pebbly beach, make the Wentworth Hotel your base for exploring this part of the Suffolk Coast. Family run since 1920, there’s a personal service and extra little touches that you’ll remember long after your visit.
