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. With free parking, a secure bike shed, and use (by arrangement) of our famous Swimming Pond. There is immediate access to scenic walking trails and the local pub is about a mile away. 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 self-contained flat has its own entrance for your privacy and ease and ample free parking. The charming and 700 year old Lamarsh Lion pub is only a mile away, offering fine ales (no food atm) 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 and a short drive to most conveniences. 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. In summer we provide a swivelling tower fan to make those hot nights bareable. We are proud to have our own delicious water supplied from a deep well in the garden and we use biomass for hot water and solar for electricity. There 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. Please ask if you'd like access to our natural swimming pond area, which is haven for swimmers, or 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. PLEASE NOTE: Swimming in the pond is strictly at your own risk and a donation to the pond's upkeep is appreciated. The rustic patio area by the pool is an incredibly tranquil area but please let us knows in advance so we make sure there is no clash with friends and family. Please see the Swimming Pond Rules, in the Other details to note section. We also offer a secure bike shed and outdoor BBQ facilities, but only on request. The annex 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, Zorro the Shitsu and when it suits him, Boris the cat. The garden is a constant labour of love, and we'd love you to enjoy the sounds and sights of rural life from to birdsong, rutting deer and... tractors. 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 limited access to our natural swimming pond, otherwise known as an organic pool for all the (wannabe) wild swimmers and it is a delightful experience. Built in 2016, and now subject to James's book "The Healing Pond", it charts the story of the ponds 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. Please bring your own towels and by using the swimming pond and area you do so entirely at your own risk. If you would like to use the pools patio/pergola area for drinks or a barbecue let us know when you get here and we'll do what we can to fit you in. A separate donation for the pool's upkeep 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. During your stay Our flexible approach ensures guests often feel they have the property to themselves. James writes from the shed up by the pond, and Charlotte is also frequently on-site for queries. We are always ready to provide assistance, directions, or recommendations about the local area. Feel free to knock on our door or send a message for any inquiries. We try to inform guests in advance when we're not around but remain reachable via phone, email, or text. In emergencies, we have family nearby and wonderful neighbours ready to assist. 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. Please see the rules pertaining to timing and use further below. 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, with it's Harry Potter houses, and elegant 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. SWIMMING POND NOTICE - 2026 (to be read and agreed upon by everyone going up to the pond area) To help us manage its use, you must send us a text message letting us know the approximate time you would like to go down to the swimming pond area. We allow a half-hour to hour usage at any one time. We generally use it early morning and in the evening and often have friends and family round. It is in constant use throughout the summer and James often works from the hut up there. Please note that use of the swimming pond is entirely at your own risk. By choosing to swim, you accept full responsibility for your own safety. We accept no liability for any accident, injury, loss or damage arising from the use of the swimming pond, or swimming pond area. For everyone's safety, please observe the following rules: - The swimming pond is not suitable for children under the age of 10. - Children must be supervised by a responsible adult at all times. - No swimming after dark. The pond area is closed to guests from dusk until daylight unless specific permission has been given. - Please bring and use your own bathing towels. Use of our BnB towels will incur a surcharge of £5 per towel. - Please do not swim alone whenever possible. - Please enter the pool by the main jetty. It is advised to jump or dive in off the end of the jetty and swim back via the steps next to the bubble pumps. The pool is 2 metres deep. - NEVER jump off the side of the jetty. There are steps. - Please do not touch the bubble pumps extruding from the four corners of the swimming area. - NEVER swim or walk into the plants on either side. And please do not attempt to sit or push off from the two long sides in the swimming area. They are extremely vulnerable. - Use caution when exiting the pond. The astro-turf can get slippery and there are roots protrude under the astro-turf near the seating area. - Do not use the pond if you have consumed excessive alcohol or drugs. - NO GLASS. Plastic glasses and plates only are permitted in the swimming pond area. These are provided in the Airbnb kitchen. Do not bring glass into the pond area. A contribution (we suggest £20) towards the upkeep and maintenance of the swimming pond area is appreciated. Thank you for helping us keep the swimming pond safe and enjoyable for everyone. We hope you have a wonderful swim! James and Charlotte Erith, Holdens Barn, Lamarsh, CO8 5DY Guest name, date, and signature: