^{Star Rating}

Details Sleeps: 2 Changeover: Monday or Friday Rooms: 1 double Length of stays: 2,3,4 or 7 nights Price: from £288 to £361 for 2 nights break Children allowed: None Babies allowed: None Dogs Welcome: No Please Note: Very Steep steps Bed Size: Super King 6' x 6'6

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Checklist

	Open Christmas / New Year		Central heating		32" Television		Telephone
	Garden-secure		Barbeque		DVD player		Cooker and hob
	Off road parking		1 bathroom		CD player		Washing machine
	Secure storage for bikes		Shower over bath		Bed linen provided		Clothes dryer
	Bikes provided		Microwave		Towels provided		Clothes airer / washing line
	Ground floor bedroom		Fridge		Breakfast basket provided
	Ground floor bathrooom		Freezer / compartment		Basics of tea, coffee, sugar provided
	Open fire		Iron and Board		Internet Access *

 

Mint Cottage is in Shilling Street, a quiet 16th Century residential street just a 100 meters from the main square and where Jane Taylor lived and wrote the famous nursery rhyme “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star”.

Mint Cottage has many wonderful period features - broad oak floor boards, ancient beamed and arched rooms, old brickwork and listed wood paneling and mullioned windows.

The bright sitting room has a cosy log burning stove and a big comfy sofa.

The kitchen dining area contains all of the modern conveniences including dishwasher, refrigerator and washing machine.

You can walk straight out from the kitchen onto a private patio to enjoy a glass of wine as you relax looking out over the lovely mature garden to the Suffolk counrtyside beyond.

Steps leading down from the patio bring you into the garden which is shared with Penny Cottage next door and is also part of our small group of holiday cottages. The garden has some nice quiet places to enjoy a picnic or have some privacy.

The beautiful bedroom has a high vaulted ceiling with a wealth of ancient oak beams including a beautiful Crown Post and fabulous original broad oak flooring, There are fine Persian rugs on the floor and a gorgeous 4 poster bed.

The bedroom has a lovely en suite bathroom with bath and shower.

There is full central heating throughout the cottage.

This cottage is 5 star rated because of the very high quality of furnishings and equipment, because of this we are unable to offer this lovely cottage to guests with pets or to smokers.

Lavenham contains an excellent French Restaurant rated as one of the best in England called The Great House.

The Market Place which is 100 yards away also features the wonderful Guildhall which is owned by the National Trust and was the backdrop for the 1960's cult film “Witchfinder General”, The Guildhall now houses a fascinating local history Museum, there are many fine pubs, restaurants, tea rooms, beauty salons, and lovely old fashioned village shops nearby.

Lavenham although really tiny was once England's 13th most prosperous town - in the 16th Century ! Its importance stems from its wool and weaving activities which is attested to by its wonderful historic buildings, Guildhall and Church.

It is a short stroll to the edge of the village and there are marked circular walks one of which will take you down the disused railway line to Long Melford and back.

This is a beautiful and romantic Cottage in a really outstanding historic location offering 5 star quality and luxury.

Please see my ‘What to Do’ web pages for lots of information on this lovely area.

    Photo taken in Snow Cottage

We can now offer you the hedonistic enjoyment of a really lovely massage in this cottage, please click this link for more information.  Click for Massage info.

* Internet access can be accessed through the cafe' in the back of Hobbs Butchers. At the bottom of the high street opposite The Swan Hotel. Easy walking distance from cottage.

All prices include vat, towels, soap, linen, heating, a 'Proper English Breakfast' welcome pack and a supply of breakfast basics like real coffee and tea etc.
The cottage is a complete little home and facilities include modern heating, TV, DVD player, books, games and a fully equipped kitchen including electric hob and oven and a microwave.

 This is Lavenham...

  Little Hall Museum, The Great House - French Restaurant and The Angel Pub all just 80 yards from the Cottage

  This is the Market Square     This is the beautiful Guildhall which is owned by the National Trust and open to visitors, it contains a very interesting local history of the village.

       The ancient Market Place is home to a French Market which is great fun and a source of some real delicacies.

 

 

   

 

Guest Comments - click here

About Suffolk

 These are some images of the countryside and tiny unspoilt vilages around Lavenham

In Charles Dickens's days, boys living in Scotland and here in East Anglia would be allowed to leave boarding school a day early because it took so long to get back home to those places.

Even though we are just 60 miles from London, this area was always very inaccessible and remained so until very recent times.

Now the local mainline train journey to London is a mere 45 minutes and a car journey takes about an hour and a half.

But still Suffolk has retained an unusually strong independent rural atmosphere and one of the great joys of the area are the beautiful little hamlets that even locals get lost getting to though the meandering 'spiders web' of tiny lanes and byroads. Many of these villages are wonderfully preserved in their medieval origins, our local village of Lavenham being a fantastic example.

The area is very rich in History from the Saxon treasure of Sutton Hoo and the rebel Queen Bodicea who defeated the Romans, right up to the many expeditions of Settlers leaving for America - in fact the First Governor of Massachusetts came from this tiny hamlet of Edwardstone when I am based at The Old Grove Farm.

The landscape and the Architectural beauty of the area has long inspired Artists to work and move here. The greatest English landscape painter John Constable painted all his famous masterpieces along the Stour which is just 5 miles from The Grove Cottages. His work undoubtedly created this landscape as the quintessential English Landscape, which is one reason why visitors to the area feel so at home.

Flatford Mill where many of Constables most well known works of art such as 'The Haywain' were painted is now a National Trust area devoted to this artist and preserving his memory and the area he made so famous.

The Great Portrait painter Thomas Gainsborough lived in Sudbury which is the closest town to us and it is a real pleasure to visit his home which is now a very interesting museum and exciting showplace for local artists and events, it also has a wonderful print making workshop where courses on all kinds of printmaking are constantly held and very much sought after.

The great artist Sir Alfred Munnings, famous for his portraits of Rural Suffolk Life lived and had his studio close to the river Stour at Dedham and these are now an interesting museum devoted to him and his works of art.

For more information, please visit: my  'What to Do' Web Pages where I have an extensive insiders guide to South Suffolk

Above are a few photos I took around the area of Lavenham, Long Melford and Polsted - The seaside is at Aldeburgh which is a totaly unspoilt seaside village, famous for its Arts events and good food - it is about 50 minutes from Lavenham.

 Kentwell Hall is just 7 minutes away and open to visitors, it is famous for it's Medieval Re-enactments. There are lovely walks around the little lanes and tracks that criss cross the countryside. These are 2 lovely hamlets close to Lavenham, Polstead and Chelsworth. There are the bluebell walks at Polstead - Hiya Reuben (my grandson)  


Below is a recent article about the Suffolk Coast

Joanna Symons, Telegraph Travel Newspaper January 2nd 2010.

'Popular though the Lake District and West Country are as tourist destinations, they can be rather damp. If you want to reduce the risk of a rainy holiday, statistics show that you should head east.

Suffolk for instance, had only about a third as much rainfall as the Lake District last summer. It also happens to have one of the loveliest stretches of coastline in Britain.


The Met office regional statistics per annum.

                        The Lake District             Suffolk

Rain fall         2300 - 3900mm          600 - 660 mm


 

Monday, 18th of January, 2010, Alex:
Mint Cottage is the most perfect romantic bolthole. Visiting on a cold January weekend gave us the perfect excuse to spend almost all our time inside by the fire in this beautiful, cosy cottage. Thank you Maryka.

Sunday, 10th of January, 2010, Ian and Claudia:
Another delightful stay !

Thursday, 7th of January, 2010, Marion:
We have both loved our stay in this exceptionally beautiful cozy cottage, the cottage and location totally exceeded all our expectations. Starting with the warm welcome on arrival, to the welcome pack, fresh flowers and all the extra special touches offering everything and more you would expect or need to make your stay as comfortable as can be. The location is fantastic, we've fallen in love with it here, very sad to leave, but will definately be back !! Highly recommended.

Sunday, 3rd of January, 2010, Alison:
A wonderful break in truly welcoming and comfortable surroundings - thank you !

Monday, 28th of December, 2009, Derek and Christine:
Just the most perfect way to spend Christmas. Mint Cottage is second to none.

Monday, 21st of December, 2009, Louise and Marish:
We had a wonderful weekend in Mint Cottage celebrating our first wedding anniversary. This was our second trip to the cottage and we look forward to returning in years to come. It is so wonderful to escape in such idyllic surroundings - it even snowed ! Perfect in every way. Thank you.

Sunday, 13th of December, 2009, Julie:
Mint Cottage was the best equipped holiday cottage that we have ever stayed in. It was also the most beautiful. We will definately make it a longer stay next time.

Friday, 4th of December, 2009, Sharon:
All in all our trip to Mint Cottage in Lavenham was absolutely wonderful. The cottage is perfect and so close to the village square. Lavenham is a gorgeous village. Southwold and Aldeburgh are well worth a visit.

Sunday, 22nd of November, 2009, Kate and Richard:
Wonderful accomodation in a beautiful place. All we could have asked for, for a weekend away.

Thursday, 19th of November, 2009, lauren and Tim:
Complete bliss. Felt completely at home here. The area is a lovely place, so welcoming we wanted to stay here forever.

Monday, 16th of November, 2009, Jade and Hannah:
If you want a short break for 2 people, this cottage, in this location is as good as anywhere in the country ! What an absolutely enchanting place - Love it - We'll be back.

Friday, 13th of November, 2009, Michael and Jessica:
Wonderful accomodation, lovely setting, a thoroughly lovely holiday,recommended to all !

Monday, 2nd of November, 2009, Tim:
A lovely relaxing break, in a beautiful cottage, in a beautiful village.

Monday, 26th of October, 2009, Frances and Samir:
From the minute we arrived we started to relax, the cottage was beautiful with so many little touches which just make our weekend away.

Monday, 26th of October, 2009, Stephen and Beverley:
Lovely cottage. Very relaxing.

Sunday, 18th of October, 2009, Danielle and Sean:
An absolutely fantastic cottage and a wonderful welcome when we arrived. A great way to escape from the city. I arrived with my boyfriend and left with my fiance, so Mint Cottage will have a place in our heart forever.

Monday, 5th of October, 2009, Amanda and Alan:
Mint cottage is superb. The attention to detail is so tastefully executed. Lavenham is wonderful. This our second stay here and it won't be our last.

Friday, 25th of September, 2009, Mervyn and Lynne:
Everything you could possibly want !

Friday, 18th of September, 2009, Steven:
Beautifully presented, beyond our expectations, welcome provisions excellent, flowers lovely touch.

Sunday, 6th of September, 2009, Julia and Jonathan:
We came for a long weekend for our 1st anniversary. The cottage was beautiful-we didn't want to leave! The Great House is worth a visit for the cheese alone. We'll definately be back and hopefully see the deer in the garden next time.

Monday, 31st of August, 2009, John and Louise:
Cottage decorated to very high standard, much in keeping with our own taste - attention to detail and quality of equipment, furnishings - excellent!

Monday, 24th of August, 2009, Martine:
Perfect for a romantic weekend, sunshine or no sunshine.

Friday, 21st of August, 2009, Adrienne and Barry:
Mint cottage...A delightful way to experience Lavenham.

Sunday, 16th of August, 2009, Marieanne:
Very pretty and tranquil, a very romantic cottage, very special place.

Monday, 10th of August, 2009, Norra and Nick:
Love the feel of the cottage - Cosy and simply romantic. more than happy to recommend. Maryka and team did a great job.

Sunday, 2nd of August, 2009, Anne-Marie:
Idyllic cottage with beautiful garden in picturesque location - perfect for romantic getaway.

Friday, 31st of July, 2009, Mick:
Everything was of a very high standard. We could not have asked for more. We can highly recommend this cottage for a relaxing and peaceful get away.

Friday, 24th of July, 2009, Claire:
My boyfriend and I have stayed in other Grove Cottages before. This cottage has everything you needed on your doorstep! Local friendly pubs, great food and lots to do. The welcome pack was great and our cottage contact Maryka was very welcoming.

Monday, 20th of July, 2009, Anna:
Never seen so many bold wooden beams in one house. The smell from the wood is amazing......We love it!

Sunday, 19th of July, 2009, Nicola and Neil:
The most romantic place we have ever stayed in, stunning views from the cottage and an amazing village. Hard to put into words how idyllic the whole package is.

Friday, 26th of June, 2009, Corinne:
We have had a wonderful weekend at Mint cottage. A truely stunning property in a beautiful, quiet location - we wish we were staying longer!

Friday, 19th of June, 2009, Dawn:
We really enjoyed our stay at Mint cottage. Everytinhg was provided in the cottage as we found we brought far more than we needed to, e.g tea, coffee, washing up liquid etc! The cottage is beautiful and was everything we wanted in a relaxing break away! I would definately recommend Mint cottage to anyone.

Monday, 25th of May, 2009, Michele:
Faultless! The attention to detail in Mint Cottage is both charming and very tastefully executed. I could happily take root here! Perfect escape - will return.

Friday, 1st of May, 2009, Angela and Charlie:
The cottage and location were fantastic, the pictures do not do it justice! Thank you for a fantastic stay. Every little detail had been thought of in the cottage.

Tuesday, 14th of April, 2009, Deborah:
A truely scrumptious five star break. Just what we needed.

Tuesday, 14th of April, 2009, Mary:
The best self catering accomodation we have ever stayed in, historic, tastefully and thoughtfully modernised and comprehensively equipped.

Tuesday, 14th of April, 2009, Marianne:
By far the most wonderful weekend i have ever spent and in the most perfect place i have ever stayed.

Friday, 10th of April, 2009, Claudia:
Mint cottage exceeded our expectations. The perfect mix of town amenities and country quiet in a spectacular cottage.

Thursday, 9th of April, 2009, Christopher:
God blessed us with a perfect honeymoon, and Mint Cottage was the perfect setting. Wonderful attention to detail.

Saturday, 28th of February, 2009, Katie:
What a beautiful cottage Mint really is! Exceeded our expectations. Very Clean. Cosy. Denise was an excellent hostess. We will definitely be coming back!

Friday, 30th of January, 2009, Christianne:
"WOW" !! I would definitely recommend Mint Cottage to anyone wanting 5 star treatment

Friday, 30th of January, 2009, Neil & Irene:
There's nothing you haven't thought of...as comfortable as home. We will be back!

Monday, 5th of January, 2009, Beccy:
A lovely cottage, thoroughly authentic and romantic - it even snowed for us!!

Monday, 29th of December, 2008, Christine & Derek:
Simply the most idyllic way to spend Christmas!

Friday, 19th of December, 2008, Rachel & Stephen:
We had a fantastic long weekend in this beautiful, cosy and very romantic cottage - we even got engaged here!!! I cannot think of anywhere more perfect to get away from it all and we truly felt like Mint Cottage was our home (we wish it was!)

Monday, 15th of December, 2008, Sam:
The cottage and Lavenham was faultless in every way - utterly fantastic

Friday, 5th of December, 2008, Emma & George:
Like stepping back in time (except with central heating and a dishwasher) lovely!

Friday, 28th of November, 2008, Tracey:
This is the 3rd time we've stayed in a 'Grove Cottage'. An escape from life for a couple of days. We already have our next trip booked!

Friday, 7th of November, 2008, Beejal & Andrew:
Mint Cottage is amazing! A perfect sanctuary away from a hectic life.

Monday, 3rd of November, 2008, Nigel & Alison:
The perfect cottage, exceeded all our expectations...why do we ever go abroad?!

Monday, 20th of October, 2008, Alyson & Andy:
Thank You. We really had a fantastic time, it was our first time away together as a couple and the memories will last a life time. The care and devotion to the cottage is evident..we are already looking at coming back!

Friday, 17th of October, 2008, John & Gail:
We never tire of feeling special and Mint Cottage has made us feel very special indeed! You put the guest first and we really cannot ask for more than that! Thank You

Monday, 6th of October, 2008, Dorrie:
Beautifully appointed, quality cottage in the perfect location for exploring Suffolk.

Friday, 3rd of October, 2008, Christine & Graham:
Mint Cottage is cosy, comfortable and beautiful. Attention to detail such as a bowl of fresh fruit and fresh flowers were lovely. Will definitely come back next year!

Friday, 26th of September, 2008, Mr & Mrs Zwolinsky:
We have stayed in numerous self-catering cottages and Mint Cottage has got to be one of the best!

Sunday, 7th of September, 2008, Emma:
A wonderfully snug cottage, the perfect place for rest & relaxation. We had a fantastic stay and look forward to a return visit!

Friday, 5th of September, 2008, Jan:
Lavenham is such a wonderful trip back in time, with all the original old houses and lovely old pubs.

Monday, 25th of August, 2008, Katharine & Russell:
Mint Cottage is a beautiful escape from modern life !

Friday, 8th of August, 2008, Denise & Derek:
What a wonderful cottage.. it’s absolutely gorgeous & exceeded our expectations. The cleanliness was wonderful and the cosyness was sooooo so cosy. Snuggly towels and gorgeous linen all smelling so gorgeously fresh. All the attention to detail was absolutely superb. The perfect place to unwind.

Monday, 28th of July, 2008, John & Barbara:
Probably THE best cottage we have ever stayed in - Comfortable, superbly equipped and a slice of Tudor history !

Monday, 21st of July, 2008, Farouk & Patricia:
It has been a pleasure to inhabit the beautiful, ancient cottage. The attention to detail is impressive, including thoughtful, quality provision of everything a guest might need to feel comfortable.

Tuesday, 15th of July, 2008, Mr M Smith:
The best self-catering cottage we have ever stayed in. Landmark Trust eat your heart out !

Tuesday, 15th of July, 2008, Jackie & Paul:
Absolutely first class visit - from the warm & friendly welcome, immaculately & well appointed cottage, a beautiful & tranquil area to visit. High recommended, very relaxing.

Monday, 16th of June, 2008, Lizzie:
Mint Cottage is lovely! When it rained, we lit the open fire and settled in for the night. When the sun shone, we sat out in the beautiful garden. The perfect, relaxing break! Thank you so much.

Tuesday, 3rd of June, 2008, John & Gwenda:
Even the website photographs cannot do it justice  reality far exceeded our expectations! Fabulous garden  seen pheasants and even 2 muntjack deer! Also bats flying around in the evening  who needs Springwatch?!?!

Tuesday, 3rd of June, 2008, Donna:
Words cannot do the cottage justice. I have never enjoyed myself so much. Wonderful, Outstanding, thank you!

Tuesday, 3rd of June, 2008, Jonathan & Patricia:
A very lovely and romantic place, especially the bedroom! The only reason we wont tell our friends about it is to stop them booking it when we want it!!