Butley Priory

Woodbridge, Suffolk

Butley Priory is unique, there is nowhere quite like it anywhere. Described by Vogue as ÒOne of the most romantic houses in EnglandÓ. A mere 700 years old, this historic Grade 1 listed building has recently been beautifully restored to make it exceedingly comfortable. The Gothic architecture, lofty reception rooms with vaulted ceilings and smouldering log fires make it an unforgettable place to stay.

The Priory, founded in the 12^th century, was formerly the gatehouse to an Augustinian Priory, and together with the monksÕ Refectory barn and the Rere-Dorter are the only buildings that remain from the former 20 acre estate.

The Great Hall is a magnificent room which plays host to weddings, birthday parties and supper clubs or can become an intimate space for a smaller house party or family stay. Here is plenty of room for everyone to enjoy catching up on their daily Suffolk adventures, board games, or just simply relax by the fire. French doors lead directly onto the newly planted pretty Tudor garden, in the summer a mass of roses and lavender. There are outside tables and chairs under a shady tree, for alfresco lunch and supper parties and BBQ. Completely secluded, the Priory is surrounded by ancient woodland and farmland. The only noise you will hear are the nightingales singing or the occasional tractor.

The charming vaulted drawing room (tv and books) furnished with sofas and armchairs is beyond the Great Hall. Hidden in the panelling is a door to the Pilgrim's Bar, a secret room, available for an extra charge if you're celebrating. This tiny room is now a charming bar with a log fire, and the centre piece is the ancient ÒpiscinaÓ rescued from the abbey church.

Suffolk offers an abundance of local independent delis, greengrocers, fishmongers, butchers and artisan bakers, with the fabulous Friday Street Farmshop or the Wild meat company shop close by. So cooks will be delighted with the well-equipped vaulted kitchen with a farmhouse kitchen table, Aga and electric range oven and an old-fashioned pantry. Or hire one of our local talented chefs to do the hard work for you.

Up the magnificent 18^th century cantilevered stairs case are three vast, luxurious double bedrooms, and The Monk's Cell is a cosy single bedroom accessed via its own stairway. The bedrooms can accommodate from 7 to 11 guests. Three of the bedrooms (with day beds for children or extra guests) include free-standing bathtubs.

Guests are reluctant to leave the tranquillity of the Priory, and have full use of the private garden, thatched summer house and tennis court throughout their stay. There is plenty to do and explore further afield: The Suffolk Punch Centre, Sutton Hoo, riding in Rendlesham forest, Orford and Framlingham castles, Martello Towers, golf at Woodbridge and Aldeburgh and sailing along the coast, to name but a few.

There are wonderful walks (we provide a walking and biking map) cycling to Orford via Butley Creek, where the foot ferry takes you across the river. The market towns of Woodbridge, Orford and Aldeburgh are a short drive away and offer a selection of excellent restaurants, pubs, cafes, and shops. An area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Suffolk Coast has a wide array of sandy and shingle beaches, and several nature reserves.

Butley Priory provides a wonderful, unforgettable experience.

Three further properties are available to book in the grounds of the Priory; Paddy's Cottage (sleeps 4 guest), Butley Priory Cottage (sleeps 4 guests), and Butley Priory Farmhouse (sleeps 24 guests), or lower occupancy Butley Priory Farmhouse (sleeps 12 guests).

• Pets Allowed
• Baby Friendly