The Old Library

About this property

Snuggle up in the galleried sleeping platform of The Old Library or cosy up in front of the fire. This unique property is close to the seafront and Aldeburgh High Street, ideally suited for a couple's retreat.

Behind what looks like a normal cottage door is hidden Aldeburgh's Old Library. High ceilings, a galleried sleeping platform, tastefully decorated and superbly finished. The Old Library is in a great position just yards from the beach - a wonderful retreat.

snape 5 miles (8 km), orford 12 miles (17 km), woodbridge 20 miles (33 km), southwold 24 miles (39 km)

The Old Library is utterly unique, beautifully furnished and with all sorts of little extras so helpful to holidaymakers, including wifi and an iPod dock. Set in the heart of the delightful seaside town of Aldeburgh and just yards from the beach, this exquisite building, once the local library and more recently an artist's studio, has been lovingly and tastefully restored to create the perfect state-of-the-art retreat for a really comfortable self catering holiday at any time of the year.

About the Property: An open plan sitting room and comfortable dining area accommodates a large table and six chairs. The kitchen is well equipped, perfect for anyone who enjoys cooking, with an island prep area separating the kitchen from the sitting area.

There are several options when it comes to bed time; as well as the sleeping platform (where there is a double and single bed) reached by a fixed ladder you can opt to sleep on the lovely sofa bed on the ground floor.

The Surroundings: The Old Library is just a few yards from the beach so an early morning swim is always an option. There is free parking in the street, or you might prefer to purchase a weekly parking ticket which gives you access to two large car parks in Aldeburgh.

Ideal for: A couple looking for something a little unusual!

Aldeburgh, a favourite seaside escape for artists, musicians and families yearning for those special holiday breaks of yesteryear, is a pretty Victorian coastal resort. The inspiration for much of Benjamin Britten's music and centre for his creation, The Aldeburgh Festival, the little town still plays host to concerts, film, theatre and poetry festivals. In the heart of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Aldeburgh is an ideal location for bird watchers, walkers and of course sailors.

The estuary, marshes and shingle banks are home to a wide variety of wildlife and there are sailing and yacht clubs at nearby Slaughden as well as the famous Aldeburgh and Thorpeness heathland golf courses, just a few minutes' drive from The Old Library.

Eating and drinking out: There are plenty of pubs, restaurants and tearooms to choose from, all within a stones throw of The Old Library. The White Lion Hotel has enjoys views and a traditional menu, and Prezzo provides a relaxed, friendly atmosphere for all ages. For slightly more formal dining, make sure to visit Regatta or The Lighthouse. No trip to Suffolk would be complete however without trying the world-class Aldeburgh fish and chips; there are two great shops on the High Street... you may have to queue but it will be well worth the wait.

Self catering eating: In the High Street you will find all the holiday provisions and treats you need; butchers, bakers, greengrocers, Lawson's Delicatessen, a Co-op general store and, of course, no shortage of fish sheds dotted along the beach, selling freshly-caught seafood throughout the day.

The pretty little town of Orford, situated on the rivers Alde and Ore, is a 20-minute pleasant drive through rural Suffolk and well worth a visit. Pinney's of Orford have grown oysters at Butley Creek since the 1950s, and the award winning Pump Street Bakery has the most amazing breads and pastries. Snape Maltings is only a few miles away with The Food Hall and Farmers Market.

Alternatively, most of the major supermarkets will deliver to this address. For more ideas on places to visit and things to do, please see our information websites Visit Aldeburgh, Visit Orford and Visit Southwold.