Holiday cottages in East Bergholt

Enjoy a holiday in East Bergholt, a small village in Constable Country on the Suffolk Essex border

 

Where is East Bergholt and what is there to see on holiday?

The small village of East Bergholt can be found towards the southern part of the county of Suffolk in England, close to the Essex border, in the Stour Valley region otherwise known as Constable Country. The village is home to several interesting and historical buildings such as its church, the Church of St. Mary the Virgin. This incredible structure dates back to the 15th century and is known for not having a spire or a tower for its church bells. A temporary wooden bell cage was built whilst work began on a tower but the work was never completed and today, the temporary structure still stands. The five bells are still rung to announce church services and weddings. It is believed to be the only location in Britain where church bells are rung on the ground. Viewing these bells, believed to be the heaviest in England, is a sight in itself and definitely worth a visit during a cottage break in East Bergholt.

The church and several buildings are decorated with pieces of flint which is another feature that is traditional to Suffolk.

One thing that East Bergholt excels in is quaint country cottages. This is a sleepy village that goes back many hundreds of years in time and the architecture in the village reflects that. Take a walk around the village to view centuries of housing styles. Many of the cottages and houses are adorned with wisteria trained to flower along their walls; wisteria in bloom is an impressive sight in early May. You may find a cottage to rent in a quiet street or a little outside East Bergholt along a country lane.

 

Are there any other places of interest to go to while in the East Bergholt area?

Another interesting place to visit in East Bergholt is the National Trust owned Bridge Cottage at nearby Flatford Mill which was once used as a painting location for artist John Constable. It houses a collection of his works today and if you love art, it is fascinating to visit.

You may also wish to hire a rowing boat to sail past Flatford Mill for closer inspection or walk the trail across the fields that leads to Dedham.

There is an excellent tea shop at Flatford Mill and also the Fountain House Tea Room in the centre of East Bergholt, across from the post office. The quality of food is most pleasing in both and highly recommended to holidaymakers and day trippers.

Where are good places to visit for the day in the surrounding areas of East Bergholt?

East Bergholt is close to the town of Manningtree which is actually in Essex, and is a great place to visit on a day trip from the village. It is one of the smallest towns in England, and the picturesque River Stour flows through the town which makes a lovely place to go on walks or long cycles with you loved ones. There are numerous shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants in Manningtree which are great to check out.

One place to visit which may be interest is the Alton Water Reservoir to the east where tourists can hire bicycles and go karts to explore the surrounding countryside. This could be a fun day out for holidaymakers and it's just a short drive away.

The village of East Bergholt may be small but fill of charm and the Constable connections. Renting a self-catering cottage here is a great idea for those wishing to see the village for themselves, to explore Constable Country and to experience this pretty part of Suffolk.

Visitors may also spot the larger village of West Bergholt on a map. West Bergholt lies twelve miles south west of East Bergholt in the county of Essex and is not on the Constable Trail.