Packaway Cabin, Dog Friendly Accommodation in Suffolk

Nestled away in the serene Suffolk countryside, Upper Grove Farm beckons as the perfect rural escape. Set amidst picturesque arable farmland, it promises a peaceful escape from the bustle of city life. Each charming cabin boasts a well-appointed kitchenette, quaint bathrooms, and soft linen bedding, ensuring a cocoon of comfort amid nature's embrace.

Embracing the ethos of disconnecting to reconnect, these cabins avoid modern distractions, with no WiFi and TV to immerse guests in an authentic off-grid experience. As you step outside, a vast expanse of 100 acres of undulating farmland is yours (and your dogs) to explore. Upper Grove Farm offers not just accommodation, but a refuge where tranquillity reigns supreme and the rhythm of rural life serenades the soul.

Arriving at the Packaway Cabin

Upon arrival at Upper Grove Farm, clear signage guided our way, leading us to a gravelled parking area where we left our car. After unloading our belongings, we walked across the field to the cabin for self-check-in, pausing to greet a friendly horse along the way.

Our accommodation, the Packaway Cabin, was cosy and welcoming, instantly putting us at ease. Each of the six cabins accommodates up to two people and two dogs. A thoughtful welcome pack awaited us inside, complete with essentials such as tea, their own signature coffee blend, and a delightful bottle of champagne, setting the tone for an enjoyable stay.

Additionally, the cabin was stocked with an array of entertainment options, including books and board games. A handy guidebook outlined local walks, activities, and even nearby veterinary services—a reassuring resource for pet owners like us, especially owning an accident-prone dog like Mulder.

The Space

The cabin exuded a cosy atmosphere without ever feeling cramped, offering an open-plan layout seamlessly blending the kitchen, dining area, and bedroom. It was the perfect setting for unwinding with family while preparing dinner. The kitchen contained all the essentials, from a stove and kettle to a small refrigerator and cafetière. The mattress proved unbelievably comfortable, complemented by luxuriously soft bedding, while the underfloor heating kept us warm at night. Despite the chill of the nights, we were never cold. The elevated bed meant that the dogs couldn't jump up (though truth be told, even I, at 5ft, found it a bit of a climb at times). French doors opened onto a charming decked area, where we relaxed in our own private outdoor jacuzzi bath and fire pit. Complete with a bench and table, it was the perfect spot to enjoy our evening meals in the crisp, fresh air.

However, the only drawback for us as dog owners was the lack of fencing around the garden and outdoor area. Consequently, we had to keep our dogs on leads when outside, which, while manageable, was a slight inconvenience.

Surrounding Walks/Things to Do

Near Upper Grove Farm, there's no shortage of activities to enjoy. Apart from the expansive arable farmland waiting to be explored and the delightful farm animals like sheep, horses, and pigs to meet, there's a charming footpath leading directly to the nearby village of Rendham, just opposite the farm entrance. Rendham offers quaint local pubs, cafes, and a picturesque church to visit, perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll with the dogs.

For those seeking a change of scenery, a short 20-minute drive leads to the seaside town of Aldeburgh. Renowned for its association with Benjamin Britten and the Aldeburgh Festival (held annually in June). To the east lies a pebble beach dotted with fisherman's huts selling the day's fresh catch. While dogs are restricted from the beach during May to September, we enjoyed off-peak beach strolls with our dogs, encountering only a handful of people and an even smaller handful of dogs we had the beach to ourselves.

Aldeburgh is also celebrated for its award-winning fish and chips, notably from The Aldeburgh Fish & Chip Shop nestled on the High Street, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts- Is This Suitable For Sensitive/Reactive Dogs?

Our stay at Upper Grove Farm was remarkably secluded, making it an ideal retreat for dogs who are reactive to strangers. With no other guests in neighbouring cabins and the cabins themselves spaced generously apart, we hardly encountered a soul. The cabins themselves are set far enough apart that you wouldn’t even notice if there was- unless the other visitors decided to walk in-front of your cabin. While there were dogs on the farmhouse premises, they were easily avoided by steering clear of that area. However, it's possible to encounter other dogs when venturing out for walks, depending on the occupancy of the other cabins.

The peacefulness of Upper Grove Farm is undeniable, yet it's important to note a couple of factors that might affect certain dogs. During our stay, we occasionally heard gunshots from nearby game shooting, which could potentially distress dogs sensitive to loud noises. Additionally, the presence of livestock might unsettle some dogs, though Mulder and Scully took it all in stride, being accustomed to such encounters. While we enjoyed meeting the pigs, sheep, and horses, some dogs may feel differently. Furthermore, the lack of fencing around the garden could pose a challenge for escape-prone dogs. It's something to keep in mind, especially if your furry friend has a knack for slipping out unnoticed. Despite these considerations, our stay was peaceful and enjoyable, but it's important to assess whether these factors might affect your dog's experience.

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Overall, our experience at Upper Grove Farm was a luxurious escape, well-suited for our reactive dogs, despite the few exceptions mentioned. It's worth noting that this suitability might vary during peak holiday seasons when all cabins are occupied.

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