We’ve gathered together just a few frequently asked questions and answers about Boatmans, its facilities and its suitability for Suffolk fishing breaks, canoeing, kayaking and birdwatching. We hope you find our answers helpful. If you have any other questions, please do just get in touch.
We regret that children under the age of 6 years may not stay at the riverside cottage.
The riverside cottage, gardens and facilities are really not suitable for toddlers or young children.
We have given this much consideration over the years. Thank you for your understanding.
Yes, children over the age of 6 are most welcome. The cottage is particularly suited to small, active young families: two children over this age have enjoyed using the pull-out bed and staying in the small downstairs bedroom (see floor plan).
No – we’re really sorry, but the cottage cannot accommodate dogs of any size.
Yes, the riverside garden is particularly suitable for enjoying together and there is off-road parking for a number of vehicles at the property.
Please do remember that visitors should not include children under the age of 6 – thank you.
Located in the downstairs bedroom, this is a standard single.
Please note that there is also standard-sized ‘pull-out’ bed in this room.
No, unfortunately it doesn’t, sorry… but we have been known to award an annual prize for the guest who proves to be the best at washing-up!
A washing machine is available for use by guests, but it is not located directly inside the cottage. The facility is located in a shared outbuilding, so please just ask if you would like to use it during your stay.
Yes, you can enjoy a full supply of fuel for the cottage multi-fuel stove log burner and outdoor summer barbecue (conditions permitting) during your stay at no extra charge.
There is an extensive, off-road parking area adjacent to the cottage and protected from the lane by a high hedge, with parking for 4 cars / other vehicles.
Access to the cottage is then either up a small sloping path and one step to enter through the conservatory at the rear of the property, or briefly along the lane to access the gated front garden and front door.
Yes, the secluded top patio – ideally situated alongside the conservatory – has patio dining furniture in keeping with the character and capacity of the cottage. There is also a barbecue here.
It’s a truly lovely place to look out towards the river gardens and enjoy a coffee, supper or a glass of wine!
The offset riverside gardens include a number of benches on the different garden terraces and a small number of folding chairs and tables are also available for use by cottage guests.
The secluded top patio area has patio furniture in keeping with the character and capacity of the cottage by the barbecue. It is ideally located by the cottage’s conservatory and is brilliant for birdwatching all year round.
Yes. A barbecue is located on the top patio by the conservatory.
Yes, the garden at Boatmans Cottage sits directly alongside the River Deben in a very quiet and rural, Designated Special Landscape Area and has its own landing stage and waterfront. It is ideal for a day’s angling, making Boatmans a fab place for Suffolk fishing breaks.
No, this can easily be stored securely in the large storage shed, just a few steps from the parking area at the top of the garden.
If you are interested in Suffolk fishing breaks, we can also tell you about the nearest tackle and bait shops, plus other fishing lakes and facilities across the county.
Yes, our outside storage shed can easily accommodate up to 4 bikes securely. It is located down a few steps from the parking area.
Yes, in the on-site bike storage shed.
Life jackets are available for use if you are on or near the river and using the rowing boat supplied at Boatmans.
You are welcome to bring your own watercraft equipment to enjoy the river – it is ideal for paddleboarding, canoeing etc.. If using your own equipment, you will need to supply and wear your own life jacket.
All activities on or near the river are undertaken at your own risk.
Wild swimming in the River Deben is not advocated, although this has been enjoyed by many guests in the past.
Please note that all activities on or near the river are undertaken at your own risk.
Yes. You can paddle board directly from the garden and storage is also provided.
Please note that all activities on or near the river are undertaken at your own risk.
You can canoe on the River Deben. It is particularly meandering around Letheringham. As with all slow-flowing rivers, there can be weed build-up at times.
Please note that all activities on or near the river are undertaken at your own risk.
If you have any other questions about the cottage, the grounds or on-site activities like our Suffolk fishing breaks, please do give Jan a call.
