The village of Thorpeness, which was created at the beginning of the last century by a wealthy Scottish barrister who felt inspired by Jacobean and Tudor architecture, truly lives up to its fantastic reputation. In 1907, Glencairn Stuart Ogilvie, a Scottish barrister, purchased some land from northern Aldeburgh to southern Sizewell in order to create a holiday village called Thorpeness.
Some of Thorpeness’ iconic structures are more than meets the eye. In order to avoid offending the public, Ogilvie disguised the water tower as ‘House in the Clouds,’ a striking five-storey building that still stands today as a majestic overgrown house. The golf course, boating lake, village, and beach are visible from this vantage point.
The Meare is a man-made, shallow boating lake measuring 3 acres, with several tributaries pouring off the principal lake and terminating in landings bearing Peter Pan-themed names. Children are encouraged to play on the Meare’s tiny islands, which include the Pirates Lair, Wendy’s home, and other locations from J. M. Barrie’s renowned novel.
Fans of J.M. Barrie of all ages can discover his work materialized at Meare boating lake, where islands and coves are named after Peter Pan characters. It’s no surprise he was inspired by this magical and fairytale-like place, which is a terrific place to have fun. Hourly rowing boat hire is available on the boating lake from Spring until Autumn, except on the weekend fine days. Contact 01728 832523 for more information.
The Dolphin Inn
The Dolphin Inn is set in the heart of the charming village of Thorpeness, and visitors will be pleased to find a welcoming and cosy atmosphere here. The Inn offers a wide selection of whiskeys, wines, ales, and delicious local food that can be enjoyed in the spacious beer garden on warm summer days. The Dolphin Inn is also home to lovely 4-star bedrooms where guests can extend their stay in Thorpeness.
Thorpeness Lake
Thorpeness Hotel, Apartments & Golf Club
The 1930s-inspired Art Deco Hotel & Restaurant overlooking the Meare is one of the greatest draws of Thorpeness. The hotel offers 36 elegant bedrooms, many of which boast wonderful views of the House in the Clouds, the Meare, and the gold course stunning gardens. Moreover, the site also houses more than 40 self-catering apartments that all sleep between four and thirteen guests. All these lovely accommodation options are set close to Aldeburgh and the serene beach of Thorpeness and are fully equipped with everything you may need for a comfortable stay.
You can dine at the Hotel’s restaurant while watching other guests play golf—if you want to compete against them later, this is the perfect place to get some advice or have a look at their game plan. The course makes for an enjoyable family activity, a wonderful method to unwind, and a unique corporate or social venture. Golf lessons are also available, and there are seven tennis courts and gorgeous landscaped gardens on the grounds.
The village of Thorpeness is also a favourite destination for families on the Suffolk coast, thanks to its boating lake, beach, library, almshouses, and large community centre. Beach View Holiday Park is nearby and provides a multitude of self-catering choices, ranging from luxury lodges to campsite pitches, as well as caravans and apartments with a view of the beach. Everyone, therefore, is accommodated in this wonderful village!
