Woodbridge is close to the Suffolk coast, but not on it - which might be why it’s not a more prominent destination for a Suffolk escape? What it is, is an historic, riverside market town, on the river Deben, with a still-vibrant regular produce market, and very close proximity to one of the UK’s most prominent Anglo-Saxon archaeological sites: the excavated burial mounds of Sutton Hoo. Our Gurus think all this adds up to a very nice mini-break destination, and their recommendations for the best places to stay in Woodbridge offer more classic mini-break ingredients, like great bars and restaurants; spa facilities; and delicious breakfasts.

Most of the treasures of Sutton Hoo reside in the British Museum - and that may be where you learned about Woodbridge? but Woodbridge still has a great little museum, and even though many of their items are replicas, it’s still a fascinating way to spend a couple of hours. Our Gurus enjoyed the exhibition about the hoard’s discovery. They also enjoyed strolling around town, admiring the Tudor, Georgian, Regency and Victorian architecture - some of which has now been converted into some of the best places to stay in Woodbridge.

The best places to stay in Woodbridge will probably appeal to walkers, as well as the with an interest in history or food. Woodbridge is on the edge of the Suffolk Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and has a fascinating tide mill that’s only a very, very short walk from the centre of town.  This is the perfect spot for a peaceful, and rejuvenating break.

The Best Places to Stay in Woodbridge

For a Country Escape

• Kesgrave Hall is a handsome Georgian house, converted into a charming, 23 room hotel, with a bustling bar and brasserie, and a destination spa. The largest rooms have roll-top baths and garden views. The restaurant and bar are busy with Ipswich locals, as well as guests, on the weekend - in summer out Gurus highly recommend eating out on the terrace, and, if you’re here with kids, they’re able to have a run around on the lawn. Kesgrave Hall was an American Air base during the war, and one of the hangers has been transformed into a sort of dance hall - ideal for weddings, with a seated area, dance floor, screens and the option of a laser light show! Idea for weddings.
• Seckford Hall is a majestic, Elizabethan building, set on beautiful manicured gardens, and now transformed into an elegant, 32 room hotel. The best rooms are decorated with antiques - including four-poster beds and charming original features, and even the simplest have plenty of space and country charm. The spa, with tis pool and treatment rooms, and the bar and restaurants are very much the icing on an already very appealing cake. A luxurious-feeling getaway.

For Families

• The Ufford Park Resort is a stylish hotel, complete with a spa and 18 hole golf course. Ufford is set in 120 sprawling acres of mature parkland, so the views for the 90 rooms and suites are green and leafy. This is a fantasia hotel for golfers, and a great hotel for non-golfers, or the families of golfers. While your golfer enjoys a two-tier driving range, you can make good use of the pool and/ or spa, and fantastic grounds. The food and location are excellent, and the hotel has some excellent family configurations.

Best Pubs-with-Rooms

• The Crown at Woodbridge is a chic gastropub, with ten rooms. The decor feels quite contemporary - especially in the pub, and there’s a cool bar - with a fantastic range of locally made ales. There’s a surprising amount of seafood on the menu, and the atmosphere in the restaurant is relaxes and romantic. Close to Sutton Hoo.

Best B&Bs

• Hill House Hall is an historic B&B, with two rooms that date back to the 14th century, and one that’s practically new. In the older two rooms, guests will discover exposed beams and huge hearths, and in the newer one, cosiness and country-style decor. A delicious breakfast is served in the original medieval kitchen. Adults only.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Woodbridge is north of London along the coast, and if you’re travelling via London, you can catch the train at Liverpool Street, for Ipswich, and change there for Woodbridge. Woodbridge’s closest airports are those in London, with London City Airport and London Stansted marginally more convenient.
• If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• Woodbridge is known for its exceptionally warm, and dry, summers, and this is one of the best times to visit, though also the most popular time. Visitors are famously just eight miles from the coast, and Woodbridge’s river walk, and quay are at their most charming in the finer weather.

Still not sure where to stay?

• You could expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Suffolk?
• Or consider one of Woodbridge’s neighbours? bustling, historic Ipswich? or Colchester?
• Or you could refine your search by the type of accommodation you’re looking for? and consider just the best pubs-with-rooms in Suffolk, for example?
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.