The Wool Weaver's Hideaway

Tucked away on a quiet hilltop street in Lavenham – one of England's finest medieval villages – this 15th-century cottage wears its age beautifully, from the timber beams overhead to the fireplace that makes the sitting room hard to leave on cooler evenings. Outside, the terrace is made for slow mornings, while a private garden offers a chance to bask in the stillness. The beamed attic bedroom looks out over garden and rolling countryside beyond. And when you're ready to explore, Lavenham's extraordinary medieval streetscapes are right on the doorstep.

Home truths:
* The staircase is old and steep, so this cottage isn't well suited to guests with restricted mobility. There is a safety gate at the top to help if you're travelling with young children.
* The bunk bedroom sits between the staircase and the main bedroom on the landing, so anyone sleeping in the main bedroom will walk through it to get there. This works well for families, but couples sharing with other adults may want to factor in the reduced privacy.
* If you're travelling with little ones, your host can provide a cot and high chair. You'll need to request them in advance.