The Stour and Dedham Valleys in Essex-Suffolk border country are where you'll find the landscapes immortalised by John Constable. Inspect scenes little changed since they were first canvassed, including Flatford Mill and the parish church at Dedham. Our choice of hotel is the stylish but informal family-run Maison Talbooth. 
Recommended place to stay: Maison Talbooth
Maison Talbooth says
With its enviable position overlooking the Dedham Vale, this Victorian country house hotel recently underwent an extensive renovation and reopened last year with even more of a ‘wow’ factor.
The addition of three new suites on the second floor makes twelve bedrooms in all, many have far-reaching views over Constable Country, some feature hot tubs on their private terraces, and all have individual style and colour.
The pool area boasts an outdoor heated swimming pool (in use year round), hot tub, covered deck with a log fire (lit every evening at 4pm), pool house and tennis court. Guests can be pampered in the Treatment Rooms, where a wide variety of therapies and packages are available.
A highlight of a stay at the Maison is dinner at Le Talbooth set on the banks of the River Stour. The restaurant is just a minute away from the hotel by courtesy car, and offers modern British cooking at its best. During the summer, a huge architectural sail covers the terrace making outside dining possible whatever the weather. Head chef Ian Rhodes champions all that is great about local food with Dedham Vale Beef, Stour Valley mutton and Harwich seafood regularly on the menu.
Maison Talbooth is also available for House Parties allowing guests to take over the whole hotel for a special party or celebration.
Click here for more information, late availability and prices.
