The Old Hare and Hounds is a large country home which was built in the 1560s and operated as a country pub during the early part of the 20th Century. Perfect for a family getaway, the holiday home exudes charm and character with many original period features including exposed timbers, open fireplaces, vaulted ceilings, and a large garden.

The property can comfortably cater for 6-8 guests (with the potential for an additional 2 upon request) with three bedrooms containing a super king in the master bedroom, a king bed in bedroom two and two double beds in the third bedroom. A large family bathroom serves the three rooms which contains both a bath and shower. On the ground floor are numerous reception rooms including a double-aspect drawing room with a large inglenook fireplace and views over the grounds. The entertainment room has a huge selection of DVDs and a smart TV. There is also a games room with a wide selection of board games and some gym equipment (which guests are permitted to use solely at their own risk). With two sofa, beds this room can also create extra sleeping space (upon request).

A formal dining room contains another open fireplace and has a lovely outlook over the gardens and a French window opening onto a terrace. It is served by a small but well-equipped and fully functional kitchen. It contains a Nespresso coffee machine and everything needed for dining in. A boot room/utility room contains a washing machine and a tumble dryer and is a perfect space for drying muddy dogs after a long country walk. There’s also a ground-floor cloakroom. Well-behaved dogs are permitted and guests should familiarize themselves with our pet code of conduct.

The gardens have been beautifully curated with open areas of lawn and a terrace with garden furniture for dining al-fresco or barbecuing. The gardens stretch far back from the lane through an area which contains a full-sized cricket net (bat and balls are not provided) for anyone looking for a spot of exercise before afternoon tea on the lawns! There’s also a fully equipped table tennis table. At the top of the garden through secure gates is a small orchard with seating and beautiful views over the neighbouring countryside – an ideal spot to watch the sunset. At the front of the house is a driveway which provides plenty of off-road parking and an EV charging point (available on request).

Somerton is located in the heart of rural, undulating countryside, surrounded by stunning footpaths with two superb country pubs/restaurants close by and is also near to the wool towns of Long Melford, Lavenham, Cavendish and Clare with their many cafes, tea rooms and independent retailers. It’s only a short drive to Bury St. Edmunds with its numerous attractions, restaurants, cathedral, The Apex Concert Hall and the wonderful Theatre Royal. Also nearby are several stately homes and parks open to the public including Nowton Park, the National Trust’s Ickworth Park, Melford Hall and Kentwell Hall.

Please note that on occasion, the detached annexe (Writers Barn) may simultaneously be occupied by separate guests. In this instance, the grounds and driveway will be shared so we ask that guests be considerate of one another and ensure that the driveway remains clear for entrance/exit at all times. Writers Barn and the Old Hare and Hounds are available to let together for larger family getaways.
Guests can charge their EV but there is an honesty box for 10p per mile.