Self contained annexe near Bures & Dedham Vale

Our peaceful countryside retreat is near to Suffolk's charming wool towns and the renowned Dedham Vale. The annexe boasts its own private entrance, a cosy mahogany bed, a sofa-bed, TV, WiFi and a bathroom featuring a luxurious bath and power shower. The fully equipped kitchen offers all you need for self-catering. Enjoy wild swimming in our unique swimming pond or just relax by the pool. With free parking, a secure bike shed, we have immediate access to scenic walking trails and the local pub. The space Holdens Barn is a tranquil countryside retreat in the heart of Suffolk, just outside the village of Bures, which is only an hour from London. Set just outside the scenic landscapes of the Dedham Vale AONB, the area is a haven for birds and wildlife and glorious 'big sky' sunsets. The charming and ancient Lamarsh Lion pub is only a mile away, offering fine ales and hearty meals and there are many other watering holes and restaurants within a close drive for an authentic rural experience. Despite our secluded setting, the location is easily accessible by sat-nav. The bright and spacious flat combines Georgian elegance with modern comfort, featuring a king-size mahogany bed, a large bathroom with a walk-in power shower and six-foot bath, and a fully equipped kitchen with an oven, fridge, microwave, air fryer, and ample workspace. The self-contained flat has its own entrance for your privacy and ease. We are proud to have our own delicious water supplied from a deep well in the garden, we use biomass for hot water and solar for electricity. Ther is high speed cable Wi-Fi to the house. For relaxation, there's a smart TV, a cosy sofa, and a large lawned garden with an outdoor rattan sofa, picnic rugs, and please ask for access to our natural swimming pond, which is haven for wild swimmers, or just for chilling out in a truly remarkable and unique environment. The pond is the subject of James's acclaimed book "The Healing Pond", which is the story of the pond's chaotic construction while recovering from a snapped Achilles. (The pond is for swimming only—there are no fish, and you must ask for permission to use the area). We also offer a secure bike shed and outdoor BBQ facilities, but only on request. The flat is fully stocked with linens, towels, kitchenware, and essential ingredients for a comfortable stay. We provide breakfast essentials such as tea, coffee, milk, granola, butter, jam, and local free-range eggs (we don't include bread) and we can accommodate dietary restrictions with prior notice. Designed for two guests, additional sleeping arrangements are available utilising the sofa-bed, travel cot, or with an air mattress—on request. Our guest wing is pet-free, though you will almost certainly encounter our friendly sausage dogs, Roxy and Romilly, shaggy Zorro the Shitsu and when it suits him, Boris the cat. The garden is a labour of love, and we'd love you to enjoy the sounds and sights of rural life from tractors to birdsong. The area offers scenic walking routes direct from the property, though sturdy footwear is recommended. Should you need assistance or directions, we’re always happy to help. Guest access You have your own entrance to come and go as you please, and it's very private. You'll have the use of the large lawned garden to the side/front of the property - perfect for a quiet picnic, glass of wine or cup or tea. We also offer access to our natural swimming pond, otherwise known as an organic pool for all the (wannabe) wild swimmers. (It is a delightful experience). Built in 2016, and now subject to James's book "The Healing Pond", it charts the story of its calamitous construction along with James trying to mend himself after snapping his Achilles tendon by using the Wim Hof Method, cold water, stretching (Five Tibetan Rites) and fasting. James is always ready to tell his story! The swimming pond area is a delight in summer, and stuffed full of nature. If you'd like to have a swim, let us know in advance or when you get here. Alternatively, if you would like to use the pool area for drinks or a barbecue, an additional donation is appreciated. We can provide you with an old charcoal barbecue but ask that you provide your own charcoal. Please let us know in advance if you'd like to have this available. Other things to note Discover the tranquillity and charm of our idyllic rural retreat, a sanctuary that can be used as a romantic getaway or a base for rambling and cycling and those just wishing to get into nature. Our self-contained flat, with its own dedicated entrance, ensures safety and peace of mind. We adhere to rigorous cleaning protocols after each guest to guarantee a pristine setting for your arrival. The annexe is a haven for those in need of a restful escape. It caters perfectly to garden enthusiasts eager to explore local botanical treasures, cyclists looking to traverse the gentle hills of the Stour Valley, and ramblers yearning to meander through Suffolk's enchanting villages. Whether you're seeking solitude or adventure, our annex provides the perfect backdrop. Accommodating up to three guests, our Airbnb annexe features a sofa bed for an additional visitor and a travel cot for the little ones, ensuring comfort for every member of your party. The spacious grounds offer ample opportunity for picnicking or simply basking in the serene ambiance when the sun graces us with its presence. And there's our famous swimming pond for some fresh water swimming (have I mentioned this...?). You are welcome to use the pool and enjoy the lounging areas by the pool, but please ask. Use of the pool is entirely at your own risk. Celebrated by guests from across the globe—from Australia to Austria, France to San Francisco—our Airbnb has garnered heaps of five-star reviews. Visitors commend the quietude, exceptional value, and the beauty of our retreat. We invite you to experience this for yourselves. Situated in the unspoiled landscapes of East Anglia, but less than an hour from the M25, our apartment stands as an ideal base for exploring the Dedham Vale AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), and the higgledy-piggledy Suffolk wool towns, like Lavenham and Long Melford. It's the perfect place for a complete chill out, commemorating a birthday weekend, celebrating an anniversary, or simply as a cosy stop-off while reconnecting with old friends in the area. With our annex, you're promised a stay that is both romantic and peaceful in this picturesque slice of the English countryside.