Cottages with hot tubs
Suffolk

2026 Hot Tub Breaks in Bury St Edmunds, Southwold, Aldeburgh & More!

Home
Cottages Latest Cottages Favourites Contact Us List Your Property
Back Overview Features Reviews Days out

The Cartlodge Shelland, Shelland

Guest Rating
Rating
4.8
out of 5
Sleeps up to 6
Pets 1
Hot Tub
Bedrooms: 3

The Cartlodge Shelland is a three-bedroom country house set on a working 250-acre farm in Suffolk. This property sits within 70 acres of private woodland and offers three en-suite and family bathrooms for total comfort. The open-plan living space features French doors opening onto a large fenced garden.

The Suffolk countryside surrounds this property with public footpaths connecting nearby villages. Stowmarket lies 4 miles away. Ipswich is 16 miles distant. Rewilded fields attract local wildlife right on your doorstep.

The accommodation sleeps six guests across three well-appointed bedrooms. The first bedroom has a super-king bed with en-suite shower room. The second offers a double bed with single bunk above.

Check Prices & Availability »
At HolidayCottages.co.uk
 

About The Cartlodge Shelland

The Cartlodge Shelland is a three-bedroom country house set on a working 250-acre farm in Suffolk. This property sits within 70 acres of private woodland and offers three en-suite and family bathrooms for total comfort. The open-plan living space features French doors opening onto a large fenced garden.

The Suffolk countryside surrounds this property with public footpaths connecting nearby villages. Stowmarket lies 4 miles away. Ipswich is 16 miles distant. Rewilded fields attract local wildlife right on your doorstep.

The accommodation sleeps six guests across three well-appointed bedrooms. The first bedroom has a super-king bed with en-suite shower room. The second offers a double bed with single bunk above. The third provides a king-size bed with en-suite facilities. A farmhouse kitchen includes an American-style fridge freezer and Tassimo coffee machine. Underfloor heating runs throughout.

Museum of East Anglian Life in Stowmarket (4 miles, 10 minutes) showcases regional history. Bury St Edmunds (12 miles, 20 minutes) offers twice-weekly markets and historic streets. Ipswich Waterfront (16 miles, 25 minutes) provides restaurants and galleries. Lavenham (14 miles, 25 minutes) displays medieval timber-framed buildings.

The Cartlodge Shelland suits families and couples wanting countryside peace. The hot tub and private woodland walks make this an exceptional rural retreat.

Check Prices & Availability »
At HolidayCottages.co.uk

Need To Know

More Cottages With Hot Tubs You May Like

Local Insights: Doves Barn

Unique information you won't find on booking sites

Shelland, Suffolk

Weather & Hot Tub Conditions

13°C

Overcast

Updated: 22 Jul 2026, 2:45am

🌡️
13.20°C
Temperature
💨
4 km/h
Wind Speed
💧
85%
Humidity
♨️
Hot Tub Tip: The contrast between cool July air and warm hot tub water creates the perfect relaxation experience. Many guests say cooler evenings make hot tub sessions even more enjoyable.

Best Months for Hot Tub Evenings

  • May - September: Warmest evenings (12-16°C), longest daylight for twilight sessions
  • October - November: Crisp autumn air, stunning starry skies, perfect contrast with hot water
  • December - February: Cold air intensifies the experience, possible snow-dusted surroundings
  • March - April: Spring awakening, longer evenings returning, wildlife becoming active
🌧️
Rainy Day Tip: Don't let rain stop you! Hot tubbing in light rain is a uniquely peaceful experience. The sound of raindrops while you're warm in the bubbling water is surprisingly relaxing.

Dark Skies & Stargazing

Doves Barn is located in one of England's darkest sky areas, making it exceptional for stargazing from the hot tub.

Bortle Scale Rating

The Bortle scale measures night sky darkness from 1 (darkest) to 9 (brightest urban):

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
🌌
Class 4 - Rural/suburban transition
This location's dark sky rating

What You Can See From The Hot Tub

The Milky Way is visible overhead, though light domes may be visible on the horizon towards larger towns.

The Milky Way is visible on clear, moonless nights.

Best Stargazing Conditions

  • New Moon periods: Darkest skies, best Milky Way visibility
  • Winter months: Earlier darkness, crisper skies, Orion constellation prominent
  • After 11pm: Neighbouring lights typically switched off
  • Allow 20 minutes: Let your eyes adjust to darkness before looking up
📱
Pro Tip: Download a stargazing app like "Sky Map" or "Star Walk" before arrival. Mobile signal can be limited, and these apps work offline.

Location & Elevation

66m

(217 feet above sea level)

Doves Barn sits in a peaceful Suffolk setting, perfect for a relaxing hot tub getaway.

🏔️
66m
Elevation
📍
Shelland
Nearest Village
🌲
Rural
Setting

What the Elevation Means for Your Stay

  • Cooler temperatures: Expect 1-2°C cooler than coastal areas, making hot tub sessions even more refreshing
  • Clearer air: Less pollution and haze, better views and stargazing
  • Morning mists: Valley fog sometimes forms below, creating magical sunrise views
  • Walking access: Higher starting point means shorter climbs to fell summits
🚗
Driving Note: The roads to Shelland are typical Suffolk lanes - narrow in places with passing spots. Take your time and enjoy the scenery.

Coordinates

Latitude: 52.2064510° N | Longitude: 0.922719° W

Sunrise & Sunset Times

Today's sun times for Shelland (Wednesday, 22 July 2026):

4:00am

Sunrise

7:04pm

Golden Hour

8:04pm

Sunset

🌅
4:00am
Sunrise
🌇
8:04pm
Sunset
📸
7:04pm
Golden Hour

Hot Tub Timing by Season

  • Summer (Jun-Aug): Sunset around 9:30-10pm - enjoy the hot tub in daylight or twilight
  • Autumn (Sep-Nov): Sunset 5-7pm - perfect timing for an after-dinner soak under emerging stars
  • Winter (Dec-Feb): Sunset around 4pm - dark hot tub sessions, ideal for stargazing
  • Spring (Mar-May): Sunset 6-9pm - watch the evenings grow longer each day
🌙
Evening Hot Tub Session: For the best experience, start your hot tub session during golden hour (7:04pm). You'll enjoy the warm colours of sunset, then transition into twilight and stars - all without having to get out!

July Daylight

This month in Shelland, you have approximately 16.07 hours of daylight. The long summer days mean extended evening activities before the hot tub beckons.

Practical Essentials

Everything you need to know before you arrive at Doves Barn.

Mobile Phone Signal

📱

Signal Strength

Good

Mobile signal is generally good in this area across most networks.

💡
Signal Tip: All major networks should work well here.

Nearest Essentials

🚗
Arrival Tip: Fill up with fuel before you arrive - petrol stations can be sparse in rural Suffolk. Consider stocking up on groceries too, especially if arriving late.

Family & Fun

Data updated: 22 Jul 2026 | Location: 52.2064510, 0.9227190

Information unique to this location - not available on booking sites

What Guests Love

Discover why our guests keep coming back to The Cartlodge Shelland

Well-Equipped Kitchen

The farmhouse kitchen contains everything needed including an American-style fridge freezer, induction hob, dishwasher and Tassimo coffee machine for home cooking.

Private Woodland Access

Seventy acres of private woodland on the farm provide endless walking routes with wildlife spotting opportunities right from your door.

Hot Tub in Garden

The garden hot tub offers relaxation after countryside walks, positioned within the large fenced lawn area for complete privacy.

Three Bathrooms

Two en-suite shower rooms plus a family bathroom mean no morning queues, with each bedroom having convenient washing facilities nearby.

Welcome Pack Included

Guests receive a welcome pack on arrival, adding a personal touch that previous visitors have specifically praised in their reviews.

Safe Enclosed Garden

The fully fenced garden provides secure outdoor space for children and pets, with patio seating areas and lawn for games.

Getting To The Cartlodge Shelland

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

By Car

To reach The Cartlodge Shelland by car, take the A14 towards Stowmarket and follow signs for Shelland village. The property is located on a working farm with clear access roads and private parking for three vehicles.

By Train

Stowmarket railway station is the nearest at 4 miles away, offering regular services to London Liverpool Street and Norwich. A taxi from the station takes approximately 10 minutes to reach the property.

Private parking for three cars
Stowmarket station (4 miles)
Easy access from A14

Attractions & More Nearby

Everything you need within easy reach

Museum of East Anglian Life
Distance: 4 miles
IP14 1DL
Lavenham Village
Distance: 14 miles
CO10 9QT
Bury St Edmunds Abbey
Distance: 12 miles
IP33 1LS
Shelland Woodland Trails
Distance: On-site
IP14 3JF
Rattlesden River Walk
Distance: 3 miles
IP30 0RJ
Haughley Park Woods
Distance: 5 miles
IP14 3JY
Stowmarket Town Centre
Distance: 4 miles
IP14 1AX
Tesco Superstore Stowmarket
Distance: 4 miles
IP14 1BE
Bury St Edmunds Market
Distance: 12 miles
IP33 1BT
Stowmarket Railway Station
Distance: 4 miles
IP14 1RQ
Needham Lake
Distance: 6 miles
IP6 8EY
Ipswich Town Centre
Distance: 16 miles
IP1 1DT
Museum of East Anglian Life
Distance: 4 miles
IP14 1DL
Lavenham Village
Distance: 14 miles
CO10 9QT
Bury St Edmunds Abbey
Distance: 12 miles
IP33 1LS
Shelland Woodland Trails
Distance: On-site
IP14 3JF
Rattlesden River Walk
Distance: 3 miles
IP30 0RJ
Haughley Park Woods
Distance: 5 miles
IP14 3JY
Stowmarket Town Centre
Distance: 4 miles
IP14 1AX
Tesco Superstore Stowmarket
Distance: 4 miles
IP14 1BE
Bury St Edmunds Market
Distance: 12 miles
IP33 1BT
Stowmarket Railway Station
Distance: 4 miles
IP14 1RQ
Needham Lake
Distance: 6 miles
IP6 8EY
Ipswich Town Centre
Distance: 16 miles
IP1 1DT

Is The Cartlodge Shelland Right For You?

Discover why this cottage is ideal for different types of visitors

For Families
Children can explore 70 acres of private woodland with wildlife spotting opportunities throughout the farm. The large fenced garden provides safe outdoor play space. A travel cot and highchair are available. The double bedroom with single bunk above suits families perfectly. Public footpaths connect to nearby villages for easy walks. However, this working farm environment requires supervision around agricultural areas.
For Couples
Couples enjoy complete countryside privacy with a hot tub set in the fenced garden. Two bedrooms feature en-suite facilities including the super-king and king-size rooms. Underfloor heating creates a cosy atmosphere. The open-plan living space with French doors opens onto peaceful farmland views. Private woodland walks for two stretch across 70 acres. Welcome packs add a thoughtful touch to romantic breaks.
Pet Friendly
One dog is welcome at The Cartlodge with additional charges applying. The fully fenced garden provides secure outdoor space for exercise and play. Seventy acres of private woodland offer extensive walking routes without leaving the property. Public footpaths connect across the surrounding countryside. Previous guests have praised the safe garden environment. Water bowls and towels should be brought for your dog's comfort.

Dining & Cafes

Taste the local flavours during your stay at The Cartlodge Shelland

The Buxhall Crown

Located 2 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: IP14 3DW

The Shepherd and Dog Stowmarket

Located 4 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: IP14 5DD

Café Green Stowmarket

Located 4 miles from your accommodation.

Postcode: IP14 1DE

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about The Cartlodge Shelland

Does this cottage have a hot tub?
Yes, The Cartlodge has a hot tub located in the garden. There is an additional charge of £100 for 2-3 nights or £150 for 4-7 nights, payable directly to the owner.
Is it pet friendly?
One dog is welcome at this property. Additional charges apply and should be paid directly to the owner.
How many people does The Cartlodge sleep?
The property sleeps six guests across three bedrooms: one super-king, one king-size and one double with single bunk above. Each bedroom has either en-suite facilities or easy access to the family bathroom.
What kitchen facilities are provided?
The farmhouse kitchen includes an American-style fridge freezer, electric oven, induction hob, microwave, dishwasher and Tassimo coffee machine. A separate utility room houses the washing machine and tumble dryer.
Is there parking available?
Private parking for three cars is provided on site. An EV charging point is available for an additional fee payable to the owner.
What are check-in and check-out times?
Check-in is from 16:00 onwards on your arrival day. Check-out is before 10:00 on your departure day.
Are towels and linen provided?
Yes, all towels and linen are included in your stay. A travel cot and highchair are also available if needed.
What outdoor space is available?
A large fenced garden laid to lawn includes two seating areas for dining and relaxing. The property also provides access to 70 acres of private woodland with walking paths throughout the farm.

Popular Stays Near This Cottage

Athelington
13 cottages
Badwell Ash
5 cottages
Colchester
11 cottages
Cretingham
5 cottages
Hintlesham
4 cottages
Ipswich
4 cottages
Kessingland
3 cottages
Shingle Street
3 cottages
Walberswick
3 cottages
Wattisham
3 cottages
Woodbridge
3 cottages

The Cartlodge Shelland Reviews

Verified Guest
Doves Barn was simply incredible. Had everything and more for the group of us that visited at the end of September. Would definitely recommend to anyone. Special thanks to Eleanor & Neville for ensuring the trip was a memorable one.
Verified Guest
Had a lovely time away in Doves Barn celebrating 3 of my kids 40th birthday this year. Had 8 teenage grandchildren with us they loved it there. The barn was very easy to find . Very clean. It supplied plenty of storage for your foods with about 6x fridge & freezers a washer if you needed to was your clothes. There were lots of games for entertaining, Table Tennis- pool- lots of other games not to mention the hot tub which everyone enjoyed. The grounds are nicely kept.
Verified Guest
Although overall we enjoyed our stay, and we appreciated the bottle of wine and welcome pack we will not be returning because :- - The rental price we too high, not value for money - Having to provide our own towels is ridiculous bearing in mind the extortionate rental price and that some of our guests had to fly to be there. This is a deal breaker for us. - Despite advertising 5 bathrooms, only 2 of these produced hot water so all our guests had to share those two bathrooms. - Two of the so called "bedrooms" were gallery rooms, open to light and noise from one of the lounge areas and from each of the other gallery rooms. We had to move children around to different rooms so they could sleep.
Verified Guest
Doves Barn is a unique holiday venue. We were a group of 16, varying in age from 12 up to 84, celebrating a milestone birthday. We found the Barn very comfortable and well equipped, the dining area lovely for a celebratory meal. There was plenty of outside space for outdoor games and the hot tub was enjoyed, also the pool table was enjoyed by many of our group. The village was a pleasant walk away, and the Indian takeaway very convenient!
Verified Guest
Plenty of space outside and inside for our large extended family which included small children. Adults loved the hot tub and pool table and we all appreciated having two large lounges.
RoseMary
Lovely quiet location. Well equipped, especially in the kitchen.
Moira
A wonderful holiday home with everything you could possibly need. We felt it was underpriced for such lovely accommodation!
Julian
An excellent property and in exceptional condition. It is well equipped and accommodated 6 people comfortably with a bathroom for each room. The surroundings were beautiful with rewilded fields attracting wildlife.
Paul
A fabulous retreat for anyone seeking some peaceful time away from it all. The garden was completely safe for our little dog, and private. We spent hours looking out at the pheasants, hares and other wildlife, and the hot tub is well placed to enjoy the view. The property is well equipped for everything you need for self catering and the local Waitrose deliver. We were a couple looking to relax in the sun, but if you have children the garden would lend itself to a game of boules or even clock golf if you wanted to bring games along. Wi-Fi worked fine, temperature comfortable and plenty of hot water. We thoroughly enjoyed our week, thank you.
Belinda
Fabulous stay . Welcome pack a bonus . Great location for walking.
Susan
Great cottage loved the welcome gift Well equipped comfortable spacious great setting
Jarrod
The property was very nice, both historic and modern inside. The location was excellent, we saw numerous hares, deer, birds of prey, game birds etc. The hot tub really was a nice addition. The location is great to getting around Suffolk, we did Bury St Edmunds, Sutton Hoo, Woodbridge to see the Saxon ship, Ipswich and Felixstowe (Landguard Fort). Highly recommended!!
Jo
Beautiful cottage with an amazing Outlook. Perfect place to relax and enjoy Suffolk
Louise
The Cartlodge is perfect. From the spacious bedrooms to the well equipped kitchen and of course the beautiful views. It was perfect for everyone in our party as we could enjoy family time with meals all together in the dining area, time as a couple relaxing in the hot tub and time in the large outdoor garden area with our young child watching the wildlife. The Cartlodge was also in the perfect location. We were close to Ipswich where we could visit friends and also close to the train station meaning we could travel to London. It is the perfect, peaceful, tranquil spot and we absolutely fell in love. We hope to return again in the near future!
Heather
Lovely place to stay quiet and peaceful
Leave a Review
Been to The Cartlodge Shelland? Please leave a review and share your holiday experiences.
Name
Month of stay
Year of stay
Review
Suffolk Business Park, General Castle Way, Bury St Edmunds, IP30 9TZ