Nestled in the picturesque Suffolk countryside, Lorraine Dearing enjoys a serene rural lifestyle in Thorndon, near Eye. With her two horses, four goats, two dogs, two cats, and even a turkey, her life is wonderfully enriched by the charm of animals. For the past decade, Lorraine has been a devoted reader of Suffolk magazine, drawn in by its wealth of local interest stories and stunning photographs of the countryside that she calls home.
Recently, Lorraine was thrilled to win a subscriber competition hosted by the magazine, earning her a delightful afternoon tea for two at Retreat East. “I’d been meaning to go for ages. I’d heard such great things about it,” Lorraine shares, brimming with anticipation for her upcoming visit.
Retreat East is not just any venue; it’s a beautifully regenerated dairy farm located in the heart of Suffolk. The space features 26 striking barns and rooms, each designed with sustainability and comfort in mind. Guests are treated to an array of luxurious experiences, including access to an award-winning restaurant, rejuvenating spa treatments, and an assortment of outdoor activities—ranging from cycling and axe throwing to yoga and Nordic walking.
Upon her arrival, Lorraine was captivated by the Great Barn, the designated spot for their afternoon tea. “It’s a stunning building with remarkable beams,” she recalls. The atmosphere was lively and eclectic, filled with a diverse mix of diners. Some were fresh from the spa, still clad in their towelling robes and slippers, while others were simply enjoying lunch in the scenic locale. This appealing blend added to the overall charm of their experience.
Once seated, a splendid cake stand brimming with treats was brought to their table. The savory offerings included mini quiches, smoked salmon on rye, coronation chicken sandwiches, roast lamb on pea bread, and even a delightful scotch egg. Lorraine enjoyed a refreshing elderflower cordial, while her guest savored a glass of prosecco, setting the scene for an indulgent afternoon.
As they transitioned into the sweet section, Lorraine was impressed. “There was a rhubarb and custard éclair, carrot cake, mini lemon cheesecakes, and scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam. It was all delightful!” Each bite was a delightful discovery, showcasing not just traditional flavors but innovative twists on classic afternoon tea essentials.
The attentive staff added another layer to their experience. They were friendly and eager to know what Lorraine’s favorite dish was. “I have to say, the éclair was exceptional—definitely different from what you’d expect, and completely delicious,” she confessed, clearly enjoying the overall experience.
Lorraine summed it up perfectly: “The setting, the food, the drinks, and Retreat East—what a real treat!” Her enthusiasm captures the essence of the unique offerings at Retreat East, a wonderful escape that seamlessly integrates culinary excellence with a stunning environment.
If you find yourself craving a similar experience, consider joining the Suffolk magazine community. With a subscription, you can enter exciting competitions to win local experiences, like the one Lorraine enjoyed. For just £35.99, you can receive 12 issues and save 45% off the cover price. Visit suffolkmag.co.uk/sub and use promo code RR25 to join.
