Cherry Cottage

Shotley sits where the Orwell and Stour rivers meet, a rural corner of Suffolk with water views, woodland walks and village pubs within easy reach. Cherry Cottage is a two-bedroom base for exploring it all. The property is yours alone, with parking for two cars and a back garden where dogs and children can run around while you watch the landscape from the sitting-out area.

The cottage spreads across two floors. Downstairs, a living room with woodburner and smart TV opens to a kitchen/dining room equipped for proper cooking—electric oven, dishwasher, microwave and everything else you need. There's also a separate toilet on the ground floor. Upstairs are two bedrooms (one with a zip-and-link super king that can split into singles, one with a kingsize bed) and a bathroom with bath and shower. Wi-Fi and all heating are included, as are bed linen and towels; the woodburner's initial fuel is covered too. A travel cot and highchair are available if you ask when booking.

This stretch of the Suffolk coast suits walkers, cyclists and anyone who wants to fish or paddle on the river. Pin Mill, a historic hamlet of converted barges and boatsheds, is a pleasant walk away. Felixstowe and Harwich are accessible by foot ferry, and the owner can arrange access to a beach hut there. One dog is welcome and stays free of charge.