There’s more to Essex and Suffolk than first meets the eye, with many hidden gems cared for by the National Trust. From charming country houses and picturesque towns with half-timbered buildings to a landscape made famous by John Constable and an ancient royal hunting forest – you really are spoilt for choice.

To help you find out more, we’ve put together seven great National Trust days out in Essex and Suffolk near our holiday cottages.

1. Ickworth

Bottom images L to R by Martin Pettitt & John Fielding

Don’t miss: The chance to discover what life was like above and below stairs.
Details: Once home to the eccentric, and sometimes infamous, Hervey family, the impressive Rotunda is a showcase of the priceless treasures the family collected, whilst life below stairs tells quite a different story. Outdoors, the extensive park and gardens provide a tranquil backdrop to a truly entertaining day out.
Find out more: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth
Stay at: Vicarage House / Vicarage House & Pool House are 40 minutes’ drive from Ickworth. Our Essex holiday lodges are a 50 minute drive.

2. Melford Hall

Top image: Andrew Rabbot; bottom images L to R by Maria & Marathon

Don’t miss: Find out why Beatrix Potter was a regular visitor and see some of her work.
Details: Explore the family home of the Hyde Parkers, who lovingly restored this house following a devastating fire in 1942. Relax and enjoy the indoor comforts of this naval family’s home, or the outdoor pursuits including croquet and picnics on the lawn.
Find out more: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/melfordhall
Stay at: Our Essex holiday lodges are a 30 minute drive, Vicarage House / Vicarage House & Pool House are a 50 minute drive.

3. Lavenham Guildhall

Top & bottom L image by Martin Pettitt; Bottom R image by Amanda Slater

Don’t miss: The little upstairs room packed with memories on film.
Details: Lavenham is one of the best preserved medieval villages in England. Step inside one of the finest timber framed buildings in the village, the Guildhall of Corpus Christi, and follow the stories and changing fortunes of those who lived and worked here.
Find out more: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lavenhamguildhall
Stay at: Our Essex holiday lodges, 30 minutes’ drive away.

4. Flatford

Bottom left image by Karen Roe

Don’t miss: The towpath walk to Constable’s birthplace at Flatford Mill and Willy Lott’s Cottage.
Details: Nestled by the River Stour, the hamlet of Flatford is home to many of the iconic views that inspired some of John Constable’s most famous paintings. By far the best way to experience these scenes is on foot - simply step back in time and absorb the places Constable knew and loved. Why not hire a rowing boat and mess about on the water or enjoy a cream tea overlooking the river?
Find out more: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/flatford
Stay at: Our Essex holiday lodges, 25 minutes’ drive away.

5. Hatfield Forest

Top & bottom L image by Jason Boldero, bottom R image by j.e.mcgowan

Don’t miss: The herds of deer and cattle still roaming free. 
Details: Make tracks for Hatfield Forest, once one of the great hunting forests of English kings. With its miles of grassy pathways and ancient, worn oaks standing as craggy guardians, it’s a magical place for the children to run off steam or a place for quiet reflection. Perfect for family bike rides, building dens, and tranquil walks while soaking up the history. Or simply relax by the lake with a picnic and watch the world go by.
Find out more: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hatfieldforest
Stay at: Our Essex holiday lodges, 40 minutes' drive away.

6. Bourne Mill

Top image by Stefan Czapski; bottom images L to R by David Smith & Ashley Dace

Don’t miss: Experience the thrill of starting the water wheel and hearing the sound of the rushing water.
Details: Pretty as a picture, this charming folly was built for banquets and converted into a watermill in the 19th century. The tranquil grounds are perfect for picnics, while a boardwalk, pond dipping and garden games promise to keep children entertained.
Find out more: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/bournemill
Stay at: Our Essex holiday lodges, 20 minutes' drive away.

7. Paycocke’s House and Grange Barn

Top image by Peter Kemp; bottom images L to R by Robyn Cox & Brian Snelson

Don’t miss: A very rich and fascinating glimpse into the history of the area
Details: Enjoy a history-filled day in the pastel-washed village of Coggeshall, bristling with antique shops and packed with medieval and Tudor buildings including the ornate Paycocke’s merchant’s house and 13th century monastic Grange Barn.
Find out more: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/paycockes and www.nationaltrust.org.uk/grangebarn
Stay at: Our Essex holiday lodges, 15 minutes' drive away.

What else?

Top:our Essex holiday lodges; Bottom: Vicarage House & Pool House

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay, explore our selection of Essex holiday cottages and Vicarage House / Vicarage House & Pool House, all near these National Trust days out in Essex and Suffolk.