Somerville House - a house that sleeps 9 guests in 5 bedrooms

Big and bold, this impressive Aldeburgh house was clearly designed for people who enjoy being together. There’s colour everywhere, enormous spaces for cooking, eating and sprawling out, plus enough bedrooms, each with their own en-suite bathroom, to keep both early risers and night owls happy. The kitchen feels made for long breakfasts that turn into late lunches, while the games room and garden keep things lively long after the beach bags have been abandoned.

Located in Aldeburgh, one of the Suffolk coast’s biggest show-offs, in the best possible way. Think shingle beaches, excellent seafood, independent shops and cosy pubs. Grab fish and chips and argue over the best bench on the seafront, wander down to the yacht club, or disappear into the marshes with the dog and a coffee.

THE FINER DETAILS

Somerville House is packed with colour, character and rooms that feel like home. Downstairs is made for sociable soirees, with generous living spaces that let everyone spread out. There’s a large sitting room for post-beach collapses, a smaller sitting room with a big TV for movie nights, cosy corners for quieter moments, and plenty of space for long, noisy dinners that drift well past bedtime. If you need to log-on while you're away, the study makes for a peaceful space to work, and there's another TV in there too if you need to catch up on the cricket score while you're working.

The kitchen is very much the heart of the house. Big enough for multiple cooks, snackers and wine-pourers at once. The dining space keeps everything connected, so whether someone’s cooking properly or just assembling an emergency cheeseboard, nobody misses out on the conversation.

Bedrooms - here each one has its own personality, which makes choosing one unexpectedly competitive. Some are calm and understated; others lean into the house’s more playful side with bold colours and quirky touches. The overall feel is relaxed rather than precious, comfortable beds, plenty of space to unpack and proper family-house energy throughout. Bathrooms follow suit, mixing smart finishes with a bit of character.

And then there’s the fun stuff. The games room is ready for rainy-day ping pong tournaments and late-night rematches, while the garden gives everyone space to spill outside when the weather behaves itself. There are spots for morning coffee, evening drinks, long lunches and children to disappear off and entertain themselves for a while (always a luxury). Altogether, it’s the kind of house that makes group holidays feel easy, even when you’ve brought three generations, two dogs and the kitchen sink.

GARDEN

The garden at Somerville House knows exactly what it’s doing and it's big enough for lazy afternoons, competitive family games and the occasional accidental sunburn. Step out from the living or dining room onto a mix of paved terrace and lawn, framed by tumbling wisteria, winding paths, mature beds and several spots to sit depending on your mood. There's a large table which seats 12, plus a smaller one, an umbrella and recliner chairs for a spot of sun-bathing.

Wander round to the back and you’ll find a gate leading straight onto the adjoining field, perfect for dog walks, leg stretches and smug shortcuts into town or to the beach.

PARKING
There is parking for 3 or 4 cars at Somerville House. A pay-as-you-go EV charger is available (please bring your own cable).