Why the village of Thorpeness in Suffolk is worth a visit

The seaside village of Thorpeness in east Suffolk is close to other tourist destinations like Aldeburgh and Saxmundham. 

Unlike other towns and villages in the county, Thorpeness was developed to be a fantasy holiday village after Stuart Ogilvie bought the hamlet in 1910. 

The influence of Ogilvie remains the same with mock Tudor houses and buildings throughout the village. 

A fantasy link can be found at Thorpeness Meare, an artificial lake covering more than 60,000 acres with islands and inlets to explore. 

The Meare is inspired by fairy tales and storybooks (Image: Sarah Lucy Brown) READ MORE: Why the 'best place to live' in Suffolk is well worth a visit

J.M Barrie, the author of Peter Pan, named all of the islands which are themed to fairy tale settings features such as Smugglers Cove and Wendy's House which visitors can explore by taking out a boat available to hire. 

The whimsical nature of the town continues with the House in the Clouds, a water tower with a house on top that can be hired as a place to stay during the holidays. 

As a holiday village there are many pubs with rooms and guest houses to stay in throughout summer and restaurants to tuck into food showcasing what the Suffolk coast has to offer.

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The Dolphin Inn is one of the places to grab a bite to eat (Image: Charlotte Bond) Earlier this year Thorpeness was named one of the most relaxing places in the country by UK Saunas.

As well as the Meare the village is located directly on the coast and has a charming shingle beach. 

The area has been called picturesque with pastel-coloured cottages lining the beach with an array of independent cafes, pubs and ice cream kiosks just a short walk away in the town centre. 

Those looking for an active day out can follow the coast and walk down to Aldeburgh which has even more shops, restaurants and history to explore.