Camping At Kentwell
Peaceful four-acre field just outside the village of Long Melford
A 10-minute drive to Lavenham; 50 minutes to Cambridge
In the grounds of historic Kentwell Hall, with shop on site
Your journey to The Tedding is as charming as the destination itself. Winding through the historic Suffolk village of Long Melford — famed for England’s longest run of 16th-century houses — you’ll cross an ancient Roman bridge, pass the traditional village green, and enter the gates of Kentwell Avenue, a tree-lined path steeped in history and rumour. This magnificent lime tree avenue stretches three-quarters of a mile and, according to local legend, is haunted. It leads directly to the heart of Tudor Kentwell Hall.
Nestled within the grounds of this remarkable estate lies The Tedding, a peaceful four-acre camping meadow. Once used as an army camp during both World Wars, the land still bears traces of the past — keep an eye out and you might spot World War II soldiers’ graffiti on the old gateposts.
Today, The Tedding is a tranquil, vehicle-free field surrounded by ancient trees and sweeping rural views. It’s perfect for nature lovers and those seeking an off-grid escape — you might spot buzzards soaring overhead or muntjac deer passing by at dawn. The absence of vehicles creates a quiet, safe space for all guests, and gates are securely locked at night for added peace of mind.
There’s no electricity or lighting here, so bring a torch to help you navigate after sunset. Facilities include toilets, a chemical disposal point, a fresh water supply, and a unisex accessible toilet approximately 300 metres away (located beside the estate shop, usually open until 5pm).
When you’re ready to explore beyond the field, Long Melford village centre is just a mile and a half away, offering restaurants, supermarkets, and a charming tearoom at the foot of Kentwell Avenue.
Book your pitch today and experience a stay that combines rich history, natural beauty, and proper countryside calm — all in one unforgettable setting.
Discover The Tedding – A Truly Unique Camping Experience
Explore Suffolk’s Finest – From Picture-Perfect Villages to Iconic Countryside
You’re in for a treat when it comes to exploring the local area — this part of Suffolk is brimming with charming villages, historic towns, and beautiful countryside.
Start just moments away in Long Melford, home to not one but two stately homes: Melford Hall and your very own Kentwell Hall. Just 10 minutes’ drive brings you to the beautifully preserved medieval village of Lavenham, famous for its crooked, timber-framed houses and cobbled streets. Likewise, the nearby market town of Sudbury, also only 10 minutes away, offers a delightful mix of independent shops, art galleries, and riverside walks.
This landscape is famously known as ‘Constable Country’, named after the artist John Constable, who painted many of his masterpieces in this area. The Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is the ideal place to take it all in — especially around Flatford Mill (40 minutes), where Constable’s world comes to life.
If you’re travelling with children or animal lovers, there are some delightful family-friendly options too: meet the fluffy residents at Hilly Ridge Alpacas (30 minutes) or enjoy hands-on fun at Boydells Dairy Farm (35 minutes).
Fancy a day in town? Head to Bury St Edmunds (30 minutes) to explore its historic cathedral and abbey ruins, or venture a little further to Cambridge (50 minutes). With its iconic university colleges, museums, and the chance to try your hand at punting along the River Cam, it’s a quintessential English day out.
Whether you’re after postcard-worthy villages, artistic landscapes or family adventures, there’s something here for everyone — all within easy reach of The Tedding.
“My child and I absolutely loved the location and the peaceful environment. It was truly refreshing to spend time in that natural environment where even the passers by greeted us with smiles and friendly waves. These gestures were much appreciated by myself and my 8-year old son. The toilet facility was sufficient and fit for purpose which is extremely helpful when accompanied by a young child and the other campers seemed to be enjoying the tranquility just as much as we were.
Proximity to the magnificent Kentwell Hall is absolutely wonderful, as a teacher myself, I believe these stately homes are the perfect way to make history come to life in a highly engaging way for children. Finally, in light of the tremendously stressful lives that many of us are now living, I am infinitely grateful that you have provided this much needed get away. It is therefore my deepest wish that you experience ever increasing success and prosperity for many years to come.”
