River Cottage

What time can I arrive?
You can arrive at any time after 3pm on the scheduled arrival date unless another time has been pre-arranged with the cottage owners.

What time must I vacate?
You must vacate by 10am on the day of departure. Bed linen must be stripped and placed on the bed in the double bedroom.

Can I book over the phone?
Yes, you can make a booking over the telephone (01728 688267). A £50 deposit is payable immediately and instructions will be sent out regarding the payment of the balance. You can also make a booking enquiry by email: kate.kilburn@yahoo.co.uk

When is full payment due?
8 weeks prior to arrival. But you will be sent clear instructions after the deposit has been received.

Are pets allowed?
Yes, two dogs are allowed but absolutely not on the furniture or in the bedrooms. Dog owners, in particular, must make sure that the property is vacuumed comprehensively prior to departure.

Is River Cottage available all year round?
Yes, we operate a Low, Mid or High season policy for the whole year. Short breaks and B&B are available during the winter months.

Is tourist information available?
Yes. There is a comprehensive file containing local information in the cottage. There is also a Tourist Board information shop in Aldeburgh High Street (6 miles).

Is there car parking available?
There is parking available for two cars right outside the cottage.

Is the cottage on a road?
No, it is well away from the nearest road – 150 yards down its own track.

Is there a garden with the cottage?
There is a private garden with stunning views of the Alde Estuary, Snape Maltings and historic Iken Church. Outdoor furniture and a BBQ is provided.

How near is the cottage to the river estuary?
The cottage is 70 yards from the river but elevated 60 feet above water level. An amazing view with no fear of flooding!

How safe is the river for children?
During the summer months people swim and paddle in the river which, at times, has a strong tidal flow. All children should be supervised near any water.

Is it possible to launch small craft from River Cottage?
Small dinghies or windsurfing equipment can be carried down a footpath to the river and launched from the bank.

Is fishing permitted on the river?
Yes. Sea bass, mullet and a variety of flat fish can be caught by rod and line. There is a fishing tackle shop in nearby Saxmundham (6 miles).

Are there plenty of walks from the cottage?
River Cottage is on the Suffolk Coastal Path. Turn right at the bottom of the garden and you will reach beautiful Iken Church in 20 minutes. Turn left and you will reach Snape Maltings in 25 minutes. From Snape you can follow the Sailors’ path to Aldeburgh. There is also nearby Tunstall Forest and Dunwich Heath.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see from River Cottage?
The Alde Estuary, along with other similar estuaries in this part of Suffolk, is one of the world’s most important habitats for over-wintering birds, particularly waders.
Avocet can be seen during the winter months from the cottage windows, as can curlew, oyster catcher and many other wading birds. Marsh Harriers can also be spotted with a keen eye.
There are little owls nesting in the garden in front of the cottage and barn owls often glide along the cliff at dusk. In short – it is a bird-watcher’s paradise!