What’s Curlew Cottage like?
This cosy two-bedroom cottage is approximately a 10-minute walk from Pakefield Beach. It is one of six properties managed by Suffolk Coastal Escapes, which specialises in luxury dog-friendly holidays. Lowestoft is approximately a five-minute drive – or 20-minute walk – away.
How dog-friendly is Curlew Cottage?
Very good. A jar of treats will be waiting in the kitchen for your pooch, along with bowls, a ball and some poo bags. The lovely rear garden is fully enclosed too, so there’s no need to worry about your dog escaping. There is an additional charge of £20 per pet per stay.
Tell me more about Curlew Cottage
This cute, terraced cottage has everything you could possibly need for a short break. You enter into the lounge, where you are greeted by a soothing colour palette inspired by the seaside. The first thing you’ll probably notice is the feature wall, with cute bird and boat-print wallpaper, and an electric fire with tiled hearth. There are two comfy sofas and a large smart TV, plus books on the wildlife and flowers of Britain, coastal art and rustic bird sculptures.
From the lounge, you’ll find an airy dining room, which has lots of storage and then it’s on to the compact kitchen (keep reading to find out more) with its sage green cabinets. A door leads from the kitchen into the enclosed garden, which is a real sun trap packed full of fragrant plants such as lavender. Some outdoor furniture and a BBQ is also provided. And downstairs, you’ll find a handy shower room and loo at the back of the house, too.
Upstairs, the calming coastal colour scheme continues in the two large bedrooms. A light and airy twin room is located at the front of the house and the master bedroom, with its super-comfy kingsize bed, is at the back. TVs, hairdryers and storage are provided in both rooms. From the master bedroom, you’ll also find a large en-suite bathroom, which is a joy to use. There is no dedicated parking at Curlew Cottage but plenty of spaces on the street outside.
What’s the food like at Curlew Cottage?
This is a self-catering cottage so you’ll need to bring your own, but you’ll find a nice bottle of Prosecco waiting for you when you check in. The modern kitchen, while compact, has everything you could possibly need, from a cheese grater to a Tassimo coffee machine, and much more besides. There is even a dishwasher, should you need it.
If you’d rather eat out or order in, you have plenty of choices too. At the time of our visit, the nearest pet-friendly pub – The Ship Inn – was rebranding itself as Pakefield’s first independent steakhouse and grill. Fans of Indian food will be pleased to know that Pakefield Tandoori is just steps from the cottage, and Pakefield Plaice is also the go-to spot for fish and chips.
Are there resident dogs at Curlew Cottage?
No, but you’re sure to meet plenty of others when you’re out and about.
Where are the best dog walks near Curlew Cottage?
Pakefield Beach, with its mix of sand, shingle and grasses, is around a 10-minute walk from Curlew Cottage. You can walk along the beach for miles in either direction – turn left to head to Lowestoft or turn right towards Kessingland. During the summer months, dog restrictions do apply on the sandy main section of Lowestoft Beach but pets are welcome all year round at Kessingland Beach, pictured above.
The cottage is also within easy walking distance of Pakefield Park. This peaceful woodland area, which was once a golf course, is a great place to enjoy a shady stroll. Another nice park that’s easy to walk to is Kensington Gardens, which has a boating lake, bowling green, sculptures and cafe. For more suggestions when it comes to dog-friendly things to see and do locally, check out my Ruff Guide.
What Ernie and Stan loved about Curlew Cottage
The welcome goodies, being close to the beach, exploring the garden
What I loved about Curlew Cottage
The stylish decor, the location, the great facilities
How to book Curlew Cottage
Breaks start from £110 per night. For more information or to book, visit the Suffolk Coastal Escapes website.
