A Suffolk hotel which was named the UK’s most romantic hotel has spilled the beans on what makes it the perfect getaway for couples – and revealed its plans for 2023.
Retreat East in Hemingstone, north of Ipswich, is a former 16th century farm which has been converted 35 acres of luxury accommodation.
Situated in the heart of the Suffolk countryside, couples can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, allowing them to soak up the peaceful atmosphere and enjoy each other’s company.
According to marketing manager, Steph Jones, the whole team at Retreat East go above and beyond to give guests the perfect getaway.
They were delighted when their efforts were recognised last year, when the venue was named by The Times and The Sunday Times as the most romantic hotel of the year.
“We’re lucky to be independently owned, which means we have a very personal and relaxed vibe to the retreat, and many of our guests are return visitors because they enjoy it so much,” explained Ms Jones.
“A lot of our guests know the team on a first name basis because of this, which has a nice personal feel.”
She added that, whether guests plumped for a couples massage, a stroll in the countryside or romantic meal for two, there would be ample opportunities to spend some uninterrupted quality time together.
Upon arrival, guests are given a short tour, and then presented with a hamper crammed full of local produce, from Pump Street chocolate to soaps made in Framlingham.
Each guest is also given complimentary private use of Retreat East’s spa facilities, which include an outdoor hot tub, steam room, sauna, ice bucket experience and showers. They also have complimentary use of the Retreat East’s gym and bicycles.
A sumptuous tasting menu has been created by head chef Adam Spicer, who many will recognise from his appearance on the BBC’s MasterChef: The Professionals in 2019. The menu can be enjoyed in the Great Barn, a triple-height oak beamed restaurant, that even comes with its own resident musician, Peter Hepworth, who plays guitar and serenades guests on Fridays and Saturdays.
Retreat East has been rapidly expanding over the past few years, and plans to add five new Shepherd’s Huts to its accommodation this year.
These huts will pay homage to the hotel’s heritage, being a former dairy farm. Each hut will be complete with king sized beds, woodburning stoves, and a decked area with magnificent views over the Suffolk meadows.
These new huts will be dog-friendly, perfect for those who cannot bear to leave their four-legged companions at home.
The Shepherd’s Huts are available now for online booking, with stays starting from June 1.
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