The Ickworth, Bury St Edmunds, United Kingdom
The Ickworth 4 Stars
"The Ickworth provides aristocratic indulgence for the whole family in an elegant stately home near Bury St Edmunds."
The Press Say
"With so many activities on offer, Ickworth offers a self-contained weekend break for families and grown-ups in sumptuous surroundings." The Times 07
Hotel Overview
The Ickworth is a rare thing - an attractive, contemporary country pile that's as welcoming to families as it is to couples. Set in 1800 acres of stunning National Trust parkland, the hotel is housed in the East Wing of the formerly aristocratically-owned Ickworth House. Decor is a funky mix of retro and traditional, with high-ceilinged interiors filled with a mishmash of mid 20th-century furniture.
The facilities
If the great outdoors is your thing, you're in luck. The Ickworth has all manner of activities, from horse riding to tennis to cycling around the vast estate. For those who prefer the more pampered side of life, an indoor swimming pool and subterranean spa are just the ticket.
An adults-only restaurant, Frederick's, is situated in the splendid original family dining room. Tuck in to traditional European dishes to views of the stunning Italian gardens outside. The family-friendly Conservatory dining room has kids' lunch and dinner options, and is recommended for a Sunday roast.
The rooms
27 bedrooms in the main house make for an intimate atmosphere. The majority are decorated with antique furniture and chandeliers, but six enjoy bang up-to-date modern design. As expected for a house of such grandeur, rooms are spacious and have excellent views of the Italian gardens and estate. DVD players are an extra tech treat.
Families seeking more privacy and space can hole up in one of the Dower House's one and two bedroom apartments. For even more exclusivity, The Butler's Lodge has three bedrooms, a living room, kitchen and a walled garden. This self-contained, private abode is perfect for larger hordes.
Facilities
Hotel Policies
Rooms
39Awards
"Best Leisure Hotel" Conde Nast 09; Frederick's restaurant holds 2 AA rosettesCome for...
- Sumptuous National Trust-owned building and grounds
- Fun for both kids and adults
- Country pursuits: fly fishing, clay pigeon shooting, horse riding...
Not Suitable for...
- Low-key, feet-up-and-book style breaks
Children
The hotel is very family-friendly. There's a supervised play area on the main floor which is open during the day. There is a children's tea time each afternoon, and the hotel restaurant also offers a special kids' menu. Extra beds are available for the room, and interconnecting rooms are also an option for families.
Eating in
Fine dining at Frederick's - dress up, book in advance. Children are only allowed in here for Sunday lunch. Kids have their own restaurant, appropriately named Cafe Inferno. The Conservatory is a good spot for lunch or tea. Limited room service runs 24 hours.