The Great House

César award in 2009

'Memorable: our room was lovely and the cooking wonderful as always.' Renewed praise in 2012 for this 'magnificent' Georgian house, which has been run for 25 years as a restaurant-with-rooms in distinctive French style by Gallic owners Régis and Martine Crépy. They have given the house a cool modern look: in 2012 they added an inner dining area in a sheltered courtyard, using stainless steel and opaque glass and a retractable canopy. 'Our attic room had all the modern knick-knacks fitted neatly among the ancient beams: the decor was neutral with bursts of colour and an aura of comfort; a bowl of fruit and decanter of sherry were complimentary. We slept well in a soft but supportive bed.' The candlelit dining room has panelled walls painted in French grey; modern artwork. The 'immaculate' cooking of chef Enrique Bilbault is often praised: 'Particularly good were bresaola and a spectacular tarte Tatin. Everything was impeccably served by the smart but friendly young French staff.' An 'excellent' breakfast has freshly squeezed orange juice, 'a wide range of cold meats and good cheese'. Children are welcomed. (Andrew and Moira Kleissner)

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  • A memorable stay. The manageress seized our cases and carried them upstairs.Our room was lovely and we slept well The dinner was wonderful as ever. Breakfast, charged extra, was excellent. Creaky floors add to the atmosphere.

    Andrew & Moira Kleissner, 03/04/2012

  • Our third visit. Last time we booked late and had to make do with the very small room on the second floor. This time we wanted something better and bigger. We were more than satisfied with our room on the first floor overlooking the Market Place. It was spacious and very well-appointed,with a small double bed each. The bathroom was good, down a few steps. The sitting area was very good. The drink-making machine was fine when you got used to it. The food for two dinners and a Sunday lunch was excellent. Fish dishes were admirably designed and perfectly timed. The service was just right, a little formal but not at all snooty. What rooms, and what a restaurant!

    David Grant, 12/03/2010

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Local attractions

Lavenham Priory
A Grade-I listed half-timber house, with three acres of grounds.
Guildhall
A Tudor house in a medieval town.
Little Hall Museum
A 14th-century house on the main square, housing the history of Lavenham.

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Discount Vouchers

This hotel accepts the following discount vouchers:

  • Online vouchers

    These entitle readers to a 10% discount off their normal B&B rate for a single night's stay

    Print voucher

Contact Details

The Great House

Market Place LAVENHAM Suffolk England CO10 9QZ

Telephone

01787 247431

Website

www.greathouse.co.uk

Discount Vouchers

This hotel accepts discount vouchers which entitle readers to a 10% discount off their normal B&B rate for a single night's stay

Further Information

Bedrooms

5.

Open

Feb-Dec, restaurant closed Sun night, Mon, Tues midday.

Facilities

lounge/bar, restaurant, patio dining area, 1/2-acre garden, unsuitable for disabled.

Background music

French.

Children

all ages welcomed.

Dogs

not allowed.

Credit cards

MasterCard, Visa.

Prices

[2012] B&B £62.50-£112.50 per person, D,B&B £94.50-£160.50, breakfast £15, dinner £31.95, full alc £56, special breaks, 1-night bookings sometimes refused Sat.