Take a break on the wagon

Angela Suter enjoyed a half-term break in East Anglia

‘It was perfect!’

OUR October half-term get-away was in an old showman’s wagon in rural Suffolk, surrounded by the orange, red, and yellow colours of the changing seasons. On the edge of the Stour Valley and overlooking hills and glades,it was perfect!

The wagon stands in its own small garden complete with table, chairs, and a barbeque, and with access through a gate to the 150 acres of Coppins Farm, once a working farm but now a wildlife and wild flower reserve with 57 bird species. Wildlife includes deer and badgers including Butler as named by our daughter Sophie(7) who visited every night for his peanuts!

The wagon has been restored from an empty shell with a leaking roof to a cosy holiday home sleeping four. The kitchen/living room is in the middle of the wagon, with clever storage, a full-size cooker, and a small fridge. A bonus is the half-size bath, not just the shower I expected to find.

The owner, John McGlashan, has thought of everything a family would need, including a microwave stored in the wagon’s underbelly, should one be needed.

For holidaymakers, the farm has two showman’s wagons, and a converted Victorian railway carriage.

www.coppinsfarm.co.uk

Places to visit nearby:

Lavenham… a medieval village founded on the wealth of the wool trade with more than 300 historic buildings. A farmers market on Sunday mornings in the village hall sells local products from meat to bread and soaps.

Clacton Pier … for old-fashioned family seaside fun and only an hour’s drive away in neighbouring Essex. Buy the saver wristband giving unlimited rides for £14.

Sudbury … an historic market town with a range of buildings from timber-framed medieval houses to 19th century silk weavers’ cottages.

Cambridge … the ancient university city has beautiful buildings, The Fitzwilliam Museum (free) and punting on the river – perfect for visitors who love architecture, history, and atmosphere.

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk

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Picture Credit: Andrew Suter