Medieval Country Cosy Cottage -Taper House Retreat

Dating back to the 1300s, Taper House is a rare Grade II* listed cottage, beautifully restored to reveal its medieval charm. With exposed beams, glowing log fires and artisan details, it’s more than a stay—it’s a step back in time. In the heart of picturesque Kersey, beside the renowned Bell Inn and overlooking the famous Kersey Splash, it’s the perfect base for exploring Suffolk, indulging in a spot of sightseeing, beautiful walks, country pubs or simply relaxing in our welcoming cottage. The space Full of charm and character, Taper House and neighbouring Bumble Cottage combine to form an ancient hall built in the early 1300’s. Over time, the hall was separated into 2 cottages. Taper House gets its name from the taper burns within the property. Revealed during the restoration, these ancient marks were thought to warn off fire and flooding and over 100 can be found on the wooden beams in almost every room. The cosy living room displays too many original features to list. These include exposed ceiling beams and wall panels, evidence of the original large mullion window, beautifully restored pine window frames, stunning herringbone brick floor and exposed brick repairs to original dawb panels. The inviting fire place – added in the 15th century has a log burning stove for cosy winter evenings. A bag of logs are provided in the winter months and the log burner is prepared and ready for lighting upon your arrival. The kitchen area is an 18th century addition to the building. This was hand built in solid wood by an artisan craftsman and provides a charm in keeping with the building but with the convenience of modern appliances. The beautiful pine work surface is reclaimed from another local ancient building. Appliances include an induction hob, eye level oven, fridge freezer, dishwasher and a washing machine. We provide tea, coffee, sugar and mill for that welcome cuppa upon arrival! A hand made oak staircase links the kitchen to the first floor. Here, the spacious bedroom features original beams, wall panels and 2 perfectly preserves mullion windows. During its painstaking restoration, the floor revealed it’s stunning original elm boards and evidence of repairs by craftsman over the centuries. The luxury king size bed has a deep sprung mattress by Tuft and Springs and the bedding is hotel quality white 400 thread pure cotton to provide you with the very best nights sleep. The dressing room leads off of the main bedroom and features the same stunning features. The en-suite shower room has been carefully designed using only the best quality furniture and features ancient oak wall panelling and flooring. Luxury white fluffy towels and bath robes are provided, along with premium shower gels and soaps. Outside, the beautiful south facing brick paved courtyard is surrounded by scented jasmine. Enjoy morning coffee on our bistro dining furniture, or al fresco dining amongst festoon lighting whilst enjoying a beautiful Suffolk sunset. Step outside the front of the cottage and you'll be greeted with a view enjoyed by generations past.....Kersey's historic village street, peppered with houses that are hundreds of years old that roll down to the famous Kersey 'Splash'. Your eyes will follow the curves of the street back up the hill and you'll be met with a quintessentially English scene - Kersey church overlooking the village. Guest access You'll have access to the entire cottage. Our courtyard garden does have shared access with the other cottages, however as you can see from our pictures you'll be cocooned in with beautiful scented jasmine, stunning Portuguese laurels and fabulous festoon lighting. Other things to note Points of note - Our cottages are ancient houses and as such we kindly ask that you respect them whilst you enjoy them. In a cottage that is almost 700 years old there are quirks and peculiarities that make them so very special; so be mindful of uneven floors, wonky walls, compact stairs and walkways - Our heating is run via a remote system – we trust you’ll find your stay at a comfortable temperature – but if you are cold, let us know! We make up a fire as standard in our cottages - The gardens have shared access the other cottages – they are dog friendly but not dog secure - Bumble Cottage can be booked with Taper House for friends and family who wish to travel together whilst enjoying your own space - The Bell inn next door will deliver hot food straight to you along with a bottle (or two!) of wine. You’ll find menus in the cottage - There is off road parking next door in the pub car park - A complimentary welcome pack is provided and includes tea, coffee, sugar, milk and luxury biscuits