Located in a quiet village on the Essex/Suffolk border, this converted rustic barn is a stylish family friendly bolthole. Based on a working farm within easy reach of the picturesque Stour valley, the barn is perfect for family stays in need of space and tranquil countryside adventures. Set up to sleep 6, however with sofabed and cot can sleep maximum of 9. Follow me on Instagram to see what we’re up to @duckduckgoosecoffee
The space
Once a popular kids cafe, Duck Duck Goose's original cafe seating area has been converted into a large, high ceiling, open plan living space. The scandi inspired kitchen / dining area at one end embraces upcycling with a reclaimed scaffold board serving area and main table as well a collection of reclaimed chairs. The cafe coffee machine has stayed, enabling coffee lovers to make the perfect coffee with locally roasted beans provided. The kitchen is fully equipped and a hamper of locally made produce is provided to get you started. A log burner at the other end with beaten up old leather sofas provides the perfect space for toasty family wintery nights. You can rug up for your own movie night as a projector has been installed to create your very own cinema. The original kids play area still exists with wooden teepee to hide in, homemade superhero cloaks and a wooden toy shop and kitchen amongst other wooden toys.
Bedroom One
The main bedroom is set in calming decor boasting sustainable bedding with a king size bed. Storage in a reclaimed chest of drawers as well as hanging space is available.
Bedroom Two
The children's bunk room is decorated with funky lights and bunk beds with more fun including chalk board tables, rocking horse, locally made wooden toys, another teepee, and a world of books to read. There’s a bunk bed as well as a double sofa bed.
Mezzanine /Bedroom Three
The mezzanine overlooks the main living area. A loft ladder leads up to a cosy area with double bed and window overlooking outside garden.
Bathrooms
Meanwhile the main bathroom features a large walk in rain shower, with optional children's bath available. There is also second toilet with sink.
Outside
The outside area includes the original natural play area with willow tunnel and teepee and mud kitchen surrounded by a wild flower garden. You'll find a french style shingle garden with seating in the back courtyard for peaceful evening drinks.
Duck Duck Goose was closed due to the COVID-19 and has unfortunately not been able to reopen, but with the large space already set up with children in mind, this conversion to a family stay space seemed to make perfect sense. The wooden play area, large open plan living makes it easier to occupy children and with it's rustic feel and open space parents can relax without worrying about children knocking over things or running about. The barn space celebrates the original ethos of the cafe - reusing and upcycling as much as possible, with furniture and fittings made from old scaffold boards, items found on the farm or left from the previous potters and artists who occupied the building. The finish has a scandi feel hit home with old beams and rustic charm.
