The Black Lion, Suffolk

Overview

Glowing fires in feature fireplaces, flagged floors and grand paintings adorn this iconic 17th-century coaching inn. Refurbished in 2017, the designers stayed true to its historic heritage, combining revamped design with antiques, artefacts and artworks that are sure to amaze its guests.

Visitors can relax in the cracking bar, the cosy drawing room or the conservatory dining space. For those fancying dinner under the stars, the fabulous sheltered terrace offers ideal alfresco dining options. Overlooking Long Melford's green and Tudor Hall, this is a stunning spot and an ideal base for antique buffs on the Lovejoy Trail. Long Melford boasts some fine antique showrooms and art galleries, whilst picture-postcard Lavenham is a short drive away.

Rooms from

Doubles and twins: £85
Suites: £175

Good to know

All major credit cards accepted
Disabled access
Parking available
Private and alfresco dining

Family favourite
There's a kids menu, highchairs and plenty of toys to keep little ones busy! Family rooms are also available.

A touch of culture
The Lovejoy Trail is a must for antique buffs, and the village of Long Melford boasts many showrooms and galleries.

Outdoor adventures
Set in a quintessential English village in the heart of the picturesque Suffolk countryside, enjoy proper country walking in idyllic environs.

Rooms

Ten fabulous rooms spread out over two floors with scenic views across the green to charming Long Melford Hall. Ranging from cosy snug rooms, spacious luxury rooms and the grand suite with its huge king-size bed and separate lounge, all the sleeping options ooze charm, style and comfort.

Enjoy rich fabrics, ornate decoration, upholstered easy chairs, antique furnishings and period fireplaces, as well as amazingly comfy beds guaranteed to ensure a great night's sleep. Nespresso machines, homemade biscuits, super-fast wi-fi and smart TVs feature throughout, and smart tiled bathrooms have shower over baths, contemporary fittings, Noble Isle toiletries and bathrobes.

Restaurant & bar

Food is innovative without being pretentious, with a simple menu that combines hearty pub classics with imaginative and modern options. The menu evolves from season to season, prizing fantastic local ingredients all year round.

Arrive early for a classic afternoon cream tea in the conservatory or explore the extensive wine list with its tasting notes and suggestions in the sheltered rear terrace.

Things to do

Local antiques aside, there's plenty of opportunities to get crafty in the local area. Visit the gorgeous Blue Owl Ceramics Studio, for some top-notch coffee and stunning views over the Stour. Get arty and get stuck into some painted pottery whilst you're here.

For those keen to step back in time, visit Great Classic Car Hire in Stowmarket. This is the place to seek an exhilarating way to discover the extensive countryside of East Anglia. The fleet of vehicles covers British, European and Far Eastern classic cars - a classy, ideal way to explore Suffolk on a perfect summer's day.