Discoverglamping.com interview with Julie from Suffolk Retreats
Can you tell us a little bit about yourselves?
We have lived in Suffolk for 15 years. Our Yurts are in the grounds of a Grade 2 listed house and cottage that date back over 400 years, which we have painstakingly restored.
Have you always wanted to run a glamping site? How did you get interested in it?
In 2012, after our children left home to house and grounds seemed empty and too lovely not to share with others and so the idea of glamping and luxury accommodation in The Granary was born.
What made you pick the location for your glamping site?
It is situated within 9 acres of our own private grounds which are, tranquil and in a lovely rural setting with a beautiful natural pond.
Do you get a wide range of different people from different walks of life or are there certain types of guests who come to stay at your site?
We are open to large groups of up to 23 who want to combine our Yurts with The Granary, which is a luxury 4* gold bungalow sleeping up to 11.
It is great for reunions, or special birthday celebrations.
We also welcome large hen groups who can book the whole site.
Plus romantic breaks for couples and family get a ways so yes we cater for all.
When guests stay, do they usually cook on site or do you find a lot like to go exploring and eat out at local places?
Each Yurt has its own wood burning stove for heating and cooking (all wood provided).
BBQ can be hired (small extra charge).
There are very good local pubs within 10 minutes’ walk, such as The Plough Inn for instance and many tea shops, cafes and good restaurants within 10-15 min drive.
If there was one activity to participate in, landmark, or place of interest that you would recommend guests visit while staying at your site, what would it be and why?
This is a hard one. People love Newmarket (race days) but also have guests who like walking/cycling from here. We are near a lot of historic places of interest too.
Some people just stay on site and enjoy the quiet.
What do you think sets your glamping site apart from others?
An amazing games room – with darts, air hockey, table football, board games, TV,
Outside there is lots of open space.
Giant chess, table tennis croquet and cricket on the lawn.
It is very private and just over an hour from London.
What has been the most memorable moment that has happened on your glamping site?
A surprise 80th birthday get-together for a lady who lived in the area many years ago and the wonderful thank you letter we received from her.
Everyone loves it and many rebook before leaving.
We have lots of funny stories, but none to share!
Do you provide any services/entertainment/activities onsite or elsewhere for your guests?
We offer champagne breakfast, delivered to your yurt.
We also host spa days in conjunction with a great local health spa, have a bouncy castle for hen groups and we have a whirlpool suitable for 9 people coming soon!
What plans (if any) do you have for your glamping site in the future?
No, we wish to keep our site small and exclusive.
We plan to add a 9 person whirlpool shortly.
