The Angel Inn, Suffolk, Garden Design

Garden Design at The Angel Inn, Suffolk

The history of The Angel Inn in Stoke by Nayland goes back well over five hundred years. The Angel Inn is wonderfully preserved and restored and offers a rare opportunity to experience and enjoy a stunning historic building with exceptional food and service. The village of Stoke-by-Nayland is first recorded in 946 when an Anglo Saxon earl endowed land in the village, most likely for a monastic community.

The Angel Inn was part of the Tendring estate in the manor of Stoke for many centuries. William de Tendring received a grant to hold a fair and market here in 1303 and the Tendring family held the land for over a century before it passed to the Lords Windsor and the heir of the Duke of Norfolk. The Angel Inn has occupied its present location for many centuries. The inn became an important stopping point on the road between Colchester and Ipswich and continued to develop as a coaching inn.

Nestled in the picturesque village of Stoke by Nayland, in the heart of Constable Country, it offers a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. One of its most enchanting features is the garden, meticulously designed by Tom.

The Garden at The Angel Inn, Suffolk

Upon arrival, as you approach via the porphyry-cobbled driveway, The Angel Inn’s gardens come into view, awash with vibrant, fragrant blooms. The lush greenery and tranquil ambiance combine to form a serene oasis. These gardens seamlessly connect the historic inn with the newly restored stables, creating a harmonious transition from indoor elegance to open-air splendour. The transformation of the former stables into luxurious accommodations invites guests to cross the gardens on their way to the restaurant. It stands as a testament to the vision of blending traditional charm with contemporary comfort.

As you wander through the gardens, you’ll discover a series of intimate dining areas thoughtfully nestled amidst the fragrant planting. Each of these spaces exudes its own distinct character and charm, offering seclusion amid carefully curated plantings that evoke the ambiance of an inviting room within an historic coaching inn.

Garden pergola

A notable feature of Tom’s design is the magnificent Arts and Crafts-style pergola that transects the garden. This finely crafted pergola not only adds a touch of architectural elegance to the outdoor spaces but also serves to partition the garden into distinct sections. It visually unites the stables with the inn, creating a seamless flow from one area to another.

The gardens at The Angel Inn engage all the senses. The scents of Mediterranean flora and climbing roses, the vivid array of colours, the soothing rustle of leaves, and the delightful cuisine combine to create an unparalleled experience. These gardens provide a splendid backdrop for memorable moments, whether you’re enjoying a romantic dinner or a leisurely afternoon tea.

The gardens at The Angel Inn are not static but ever-evolving. Tom’s vision for the future encompasses further refinement and enhancement of these outdoor spaces, ensuring they remain an enchanting focal point for guests to relish.

Designed by the talented garden designer, Tom, the gardens at The Angel Inn, Stoke by Nayland, are a testament to the power of thoughtful design and the splendour of nature. They provide an enchanting backdrop for your visit, whether you’re staying in the luxurious converted stables, indulging in a meal within one of the intimate garden dining areas, or simply strolling through the lush greenery.