The Pump House

The Babergh countryside offers serious walking, two pubs worth seeking out, and uninterrupted views across the Box Valley. The Pump House sits in the middle of it all—a 1930s pumping station restored in 2005 and now a one-bedroom property that sleeps four in a private meadow beside the River Box, deep in Dedham Vale. Glass walls frame the landscape rather than hide from it, so the valley views run continuously through the main living spaces and out across the terrace.

Downstairs is an open-plan living and dining area with a wood-burning stove, a well-fitted kitchen for proper cooking, French doors opening to the garden, and a shower room. Upstairs, a separate snug with a sofa bed and television serves as either a second bedroom or a quiet retreat. The main bedroom holds a king-size bed. Heating comes from a ground source heat pump with underfloor distribution; electricity, bed linen, towels and wi-fi are all included, along with logs for the stove. Two cars fit in the private parking space. The garden is lawned with decking and furniture, though it contains a step and an unfenced river—things to factor in if you're visiting with young children. One dog is welcome at no extra cost. Smoking is not permitted.