The Gig House, Stowupland

Customer rating

4.8★

6 Guests
3 Bedrooms
1 Bathroom
Pets Yes
Show on map

Features

Off road parking
Garden / Patio
Pub/shop < 1 mile
Washing machine
Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing

Cleanliness

Comfort

Facilities and Maintenance

* Based on a combined average customer score

23 Customer Review(s)

William
May 2026

“This was our second time as a family visiting Suffolk, but first time staying at The Gig House.”

One word to sum it up, memorable! From the beautiful interiors to the amazing gardens, we loved every second staying here. We also met Hew who was absolutely lovely and welcoming and allowed us to walk around his land, Gorgeous! One thing I’d probably say is bring your own tea bags and coffee as there is none on site, however this is not a critic, I think most people would expect this, we didn’t mind as it was just perfect! Thanks Hew for creating a beautiful little holiday cottage, we will ...

One word to sum it up, memorable! From the beautiful interiors to the amazing gardens, we loved every second staying here. We also met Hew who was absolutely lovely and welcoming and allowed us to walk around his land, Gorgeous! One thing I’d probably say is bring your own tea bags and coffee as there is none on site, however this is not a critic, I think most people would expect this, we didn’t mind as it was just perfect! Thanks Hew for creating a beautiful little holiday cottage, we will definitely be booking again!

- William, May 2026
Riet October 2025

“What better recommendation than to say that we liked this place so much in early May that we decided to come back in October, wanting to experience the different seasons.”

We liked it just as much, explored more churches (Thornham Parva is beautiful) and are plnning to be back in the Spring to see the flowering of the hundreds of bulbs that were just arriving as we left, and to admire the new bridge over the moat, whose foundations were just being laid. This is a very special place.

- Riet, October 2025
Trevor August 2025

“Superb half timbered barn in a lovely location with a grand period house adjacent surrounded by a moat.”

Beautiful contained garden for two young grandchildren and two dogs, suited jus very well. Children loved walks around the farm and location was ideal for the Steam Railway, Jimmy's Farm, Ixworth Hall and Sutton Hoo, all within a 20mile radius.

- Trevor, August 2025
Hayley August 2025

“The owner was incredibly kind and helpful and let us take 4 dogs instead of 2 by special request.”

The bedrooms and bathroom were spotless but the downstairs was quite grimy, the cleaning wasn’t the best. There were cobwebs everywhere and we had to scrub the oven for an hour before it was useable and there was food left in the sink. We didn’t let it affect our stay and it’s a beautiful place but the cleaning could definitely have been better. Overall very comfortable and beautiful surroundings.

- Hayley, August 2025
Helen August 2025

“Such a stunning setting.”

The cottage deserves to be 4 star! Couldn’t believe how stunning the walled garden was as we opened the door. Wow! The beds were really comfortable & so grateful that we could wander around the grounds. Perhaps it’s time for a little update of the sofas ( or add large washable throws) and swap the washing machine for a dishwasher. The cooker door could benefit from a deep clean. As mentioned in other reviews, the towels were rather old & larger wine glasses would be a bonus. A bigger smart TV would be great too. But these are all quick fixes… in general it’s just beautiful. Thanks

- Helen, August 2025
John June 2025

“Lovely cottage with beautiful gardens”

- John, June 2025
Ronald May 2025

“Lovely cosy place with wonderful Historical surrounding !”

We loved sitting by the moat watching the ducks I saw a Kingfisher first time in my life! We sat read Huw’s book About the history of the property ! Everything we wanted t be !

- Ronald, May 2025
John May 2025

“The Gig House was a great place to stay, its very characterful and retains much of the original structural frame and is very tastefully decorated and presented throughout.”

It was warm and comfortable and the little private garden was very nice. The history of the building and Columbine Hall made interesting reading. Its position within the Columbine Hall Estate and the access to the grounds and surrounding gardens was also an added bonus. We found it a great base for the week.

- John, May 2025
Sue May 2025

“A cosy and comfortable barn in the grounds of a beautiful 14th century Manor House with picturesque moat.”

Lovely surroundings, peaceful and quiet. The accommodation is well equipped but a second bathroom and certainly a second toilet would have been useful. High end beds and linen although the towels were mostly thin and fraying. Stated barbecue facilities were unusable. We enjoyed our stay.

- Sue, May 2025
Bella March 2025

“We absolutely loved Gig House and the gardens of Columbyne Hall.”

Every room was like a picture from a magazine. Misty mornings, sunny days and cosy evenings by the open fire - perfect for us! Thank you for sharing such a beautiful place with us.

- Bella, March 2025
Kevin October 2024

“Just the most perfect place for an escape.”

.we'd imagine, at any time of the year. The house itself, the fixtures and fittings, and the gardens are just beautiful. Wonderful evenings with an open fire, so lovely to return to after a day out. Absolutely no complaints whatsoever..the only possible suggestion we'd make would be perhaps an outdoor mat to clean shoes and boots before coming inside..or perhaps boot stand or box to keep them outdoors? Many thanks to everyone connected to Columbine for making us feel very welcome..and providing the most perfect much-needed escape.

- Kevin, October 2024
Antony September 2024

“The Gig House has a lovely ambience and is a really successful conversion of a period property.”

We enjoyed our stay and loved the location, being on the estate with access to the moat walk and gardens, which was a daily treat for our dogs. The only criticisms are that the kitchen area is starting to look a bit tired. The utensils & crockery could do with either updating or some more useful additions. There are far too many tins in the oven and most could do with being disposed of. The fridge door needs rehanging on the same side as the covering cupboard door, as this was a bit of a bug bear! And a small dishwasher would be good. That said it did not impact on our over all enjoyment of this peaceful property. Very comfortable beds, good shower, efficient fireplace, light & airy in all rooms, and open plan layout downstairs is really functional. Finally, it should be made clear that the private garden is not directly accessible from the back door, but is through the estate's cottage garden. This meant we could not let our dogs straight out, but had to put a lead on them to get to it, just in case they gave chase to any of the wildlife around! (They're used to livestock but a rabbit would have led them astray. Thankfully the hedgehog didn't move quick enough to engage them!) Lovely having views over the cottage garden though. Just a shame the path to the private garden is not closed off. That said, would happily recommend the Gig House if you want a relaxing, peaceful stay in in historic and rural surroundings.

- Antony, September 2024
Stephen September 2024

“The Gig House was a really really great place to stay and be based for exploring Suffolk for the first time.”

The walled garden we opened the back door onto and looked over was idyllic. Bed and overall layout very comfortable, it was a lovely serine place to stay. The work going as advertised was not intrusive, and we had a lovely relaxing holiday......Would we return? - YES!

- Stephen, September 2024
Isabelle August 2024

“Absolutely gorgeous property, surrounding area is great to explore.”

The owners were very friendly and helpful, and the gardeners keep the walled garden just beautiful. We visited Southwold, Sutton Hoo, Stowmarket and Lavenham whilst we were there and had the most fabulous short break. Highly recommended.

- Isabelle, August 2024
Carl August 2024

“Beautiful cottage set on incredible grounds would 100%return and recommend”

- Carl, August 2024
Elizabeth July 2024

“Stayed here last year but never got round to giving feedback.”

Visited my sister in care home & booked this as peaceful haven to relax in. Lovely surroundings/dog walks, comfortable beds. Great quality cooking utensils/saucepans Fridge inadequate for 3 guests. Downstairs could’ve been cleaner compared to other Sykes cottages stayed in. Garden not private,woke up to gardeners picking veg attending garden so be careful opening back door in morning to let dogs out. Garden furniture in tiny private bit of garden needs replacing.Wish Sykes were honest in advertising lack of privacy in garden & you woke up to strangers. Emailed Sykes direct but advertising never rectified from last year which is disappointing.

- Elizabeth, July 2024
Stephen April 2024

“We had a lovey stay at the gig house.”

Absolutely stunning property surrounded by beautiful fields and overlooking a wonderful garden. Our dog absolutely loved watching the doves through the window over the archway! It was spotlessly clean and welcoming. ! The Kitchen could do with some better cutting knives, but we got by. We also found the beds very firm but they had wonderful linens and plush duvets. It was cold at night time but we didn’t light a fire so can’t really complain! would definitely recommend taking slippers and a dressing gown . Over all all of the highs outweigh any minor lows ! Stunning , beautiful perfect setting , we loved it .

- Stephen, April 2024
John March 2024

“We have a very large, very well-behaved dog and the 29 acres of land that we could explore was amazing everybody was so friendly and the history of the hall was amazing as well, the gig house was well equipped with everything we could possibly need, ie washing machine , cleaning supplies, ironing board and iron hair dryer etc , the house was immaculate and cosy, the open fire was set up ready to use adding to the homely cosy feel, all local amenities are dog friendly and welcoming, pub,fish shop and butchers and chinese highly recommended.”

also hew was always available if needed and such a lovely man, all staff and locals on the grounds are very friendly, we will definitely be rebooking, kind regards lisa and john plus bully the dog.

- John, March 2024
Heather February 2024

“We had a very enjoyable stay at the Gig House.”

It was warm and cosy despite the cold wet weather and had everything we needed to feel at home. Beds were very comfy. The house was located in a quiet but convenient area with some interesting history. Will definitely look to rent it again.

- Heather, February 2024
Adam November 2023

“A property with historic charm set in a delightful Suffolk farm group in a peaceful rural location.”

Perfectly centrally located for East Anglia site seeing. Open fire a bonus during the cold spell when visiting and adding to the period atmosphere of the place. Upgrading of door seals would be an obvious improvement to reduce on cold draughts. Larger wine glasses perhaps? A minor point! TV handset slightly unresponsive. High standards of cleanliness and comfort. All in all a great property which we would highly recommend.

- Adam, November 2023
John October 2023

“This is our fourth visit to The Gig House now.”

We keep coming back because we love it! The atmosphere in the house, the location within Suffolk and also the location next to Columbine Hall and its gardens all make it one of our favourite places to stay. It's warm, friendly and is equipped with everything we've needed each time we've stayed. I highly recommend it.

- John, October 2023
Sarah August 2023

“Lovely guest house.”

Amazing location - very peaceful and great for a family or couple looking an escape from the big city! Lots of walking and beautiful scenery! We lived every minute! Thank you Hew x

- Sarah, August 2023
Michael December 2022

“Enjoyed staying at your property very much such a great place.”

Would definitely re book. Thanks very much.

- Michael, December 2022

Show less

Summary

Three bedrooms: 2 x king-size, 1 x children’s bunk bed
Bathroom with bath, shower over, basin and WC
Open-plan living space with kitchen, dining area and sitting area with open fire
Electric storage heating and open fire
Electric oven, grill and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine
Flat-screen TV with FreeView, DVD player, CD player, iPod docking station, WiFi
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Ample off-road parking
Enclosed garden, patio furniture, 29 acres of communal grounds
Two well-behaved dogs welcome
Sorry, no smoking
Shop 0.9 miles, 0.6 miles
Note: There is an unfenced moat near the property so please supervise children at all times

The property

Guests arriving at The Gig House will come down the main drive of Columbine Hall, where they first reach The Gig House, with ample parking outside. The door opens straight into the sociable living space with a door to the wonderful vegetable garden at the side, impressive fireplace and wooden stiars taking you to the first floor. All three bedrooms have a restful country feel and lovely rural views, with the bathroom conveniently located for all of them, off the landing. A real treat at The Gig House are the award winning gardens which you can explore; perhaps take a picnic and find a quiet spot beside the moat to relax in complete peace and quiet with plentiful bird and insect life. Ground Floor Guests arriving at The Gig House will come in through the solid wood door from the gravel drive and enter the living space, which has a tiled floor and plenty of space in cupboards under the stairs for hats, coats and boots. There is another door leading from this main space into the kitchen garden beyond. Living/Kitchen/Dining Room This spacious and beautifully furnished room is arranged around a large central hearth and has a fully equipped kitchen with an electric double oven range, washing machine, fridge with small freezer compartment and a microwave. The seating area has two large sofas arranged around a rug in front of the large open fire and beyond this is a dining table and six chairs. There is a flat screen TV with Freeview channels, a DVD player, oriental rugs and antique furniture. Bedroom 1 This delightful room has a king-size bed with a table seating two to enjoy a morning ‘cuppa’ in peace, and windows overlooking the enclosed garden. In this room is a built in bedside shelf, a floor lamp, some hooks on the wall for hanging clothes, and a chest of drawers. Bedroom 2 This room has a king-size bed, a built in bedside shelf, a set of shelves, a chair and a window overlooking the driveway. Bedroom 3 This charming room has built-in bunk beds with 6’4” by 2’9” mattresses (3” narrower than standard single beds), a chair, and a built in wardrobe and views over the kitchen garden. Bathroom This spacious room has a full-size bath with shower above, a hand basin and W.C. Outside The Gig House has on one side a delightful kitchen garden, as well as a small enclosed garden with table and chairs to the back of the property. The overall setting is within the 29 acres of Columbine Hall, which guests are welcome to explore when they visit. There is plenty of parking around the property.

Note: There is some building work taking place on outbuildings on the site for 2024 on Mondays to Fridays from 8am until 4pm and the owners have offered 10% discount on the rental price (already added) to take into account any disturbance.

Floorplans

Floorplan

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £100.

View on map

About the location

STOWUPLAND

Stowmarket 1.8 miles; Ipswich 12.1 miles; Woodbridge 20.1 miles; Aldeburgh 29.7 miles

Close to the charming market town of Stowmarket in Suffolk, Stowupland is a delightful rural village which boasts a small selection of shops and a couple of popular local pubs. Known by the Saxons as ‘Ultuna’ due to the presence of a large number of owls in the nearby woods, the village is a prime example of a traditional English village with some spectacular countryside surrounding it, making it the perfect spot for walking and cycling. Nearby attractions include Baylham House Rare Breeds Farm, Stonham Barns Golf Park and the infamous Food Museum with the bustling town of Stowmarket just a few miles away, where you will find an impressive array of shops, pubs, restaurants, boutiques, galleries and cafes.

Note: There is an unfenced moat near the property so please supervise children at all times

This property offers the following short breaks:

Winter
Off-season
Last minute
Christmas

Stowupland, Suffolk (Ref. 1116902)

Your selection:

Nearby dates:

Your selection:

Nearby dates:

Available dates:

Other available dates:

Features

Reviews & Ratings

“This was our second time as a family visiting Suffolk, but first time staying at The Gig House.”

“What better recommendation than to say that we liked this place so much in early May that we decided to come back in October, wanting to experience the different seasons.”

“Superb half timbered barn in a lovely location with a grand period house adjacent surrounded by a moat.”

“The owner was incredibly kind and helpful and let us take 4 dogs instead of 2 by special request.”

“Such a stunning setting.”

“Lovely cottage with beautiful gardens”

“Lovely cosy place with wonderful Historical surrounding !”

“The Gig House was a great place to stay, its very characterful and retains much of the original structural frame and is very tastefully decorated and presented throughout.”

“A cosy and comfortable barn in the grounds of a beautiful 14th century Manor House with picturesque moat.”

“We absolutely loved Gig House and the gardens of Columbyne Hall.”

“Just the most perfect place for an escape.”

“The Gig House has a lovely ambience and is a really successful conversion of a period property.”

“The Gig House was a really really great place to stay and be based for exploring Suffolk for the first time.”

“Absolutely gorgeous property, surrounding area is great to explore.”

“Beautiful cottage set on incredible grounds would 100%return and recommend”

“Stayed here last year but never got round to giving feedback.”

“We had a lovey stay at the gig house.”

“We had a very enjoyable stay at the Gig House.”

“A property with historic charm set in a delightful Suffolk farm group in a peaceful rural location.”

“This is our fourth visit to The Gig House now.”

“Lovely guest house.”