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There is so much to see and do in Thorpeness and the surrounding area. View our guide to Thorpeness video here to find out more:
The House in the Clouds
Whichever road you take to Thorpeness, the House in the Clouds is always the landmark that everyone looks for. Built originally to disguise a water tank, the current owners converted this unique folly into a family home.
“The fairies really own this house
or so the children say,
In fact, they all of them moved in
upon the self same day.”
—Inspired by the House. Mrs Malcolm Mason. 1923.What a facinating history
Thorpeness is no ordinary Suffolk village. Nearly a century ago, the architect, barrister and playwright, Glencairn Stuart Ogilvie set out to create a safe and healthy, fun-packed holiday environment, where children could enjoy the magic and innocence of a traditional seaside holiday. From this idea, the Suffolk holiday village of mock-Tudor buildings arose amongst the purple heather and golden gorse, set back from the stunning unspoilt beach.
By the 1930's
Thorpeness had a Country Club, 18-hole golf course and golf club, 65 acre ‘swallows and amazons’ Meare and the distinctive House in the Clouds. Its own railway station, Thorpeness Halt, brought holiday makers from London and affluent families on leave from the Colonies to relax by the sea.
A decade earlier
The legendary James Braid laid out the 18-hole, 6241-yard heathland golf course, which today boasts the reputation of being one of the best of its kind in the country.
Generations of families enjoyed golf and tennis during the day whilst their children were looked after by their staff. The evenings were a social whirl of activities, usually at The Country Club, where dances and entertainment took place.
Later generations of the Ogilvies kept Glencairns' dream alive. But in the 70's and 80's, the estate was broken up and gradually sold off.
Today, the owners of the hotel, golf club and country club, along with the owners of private houses and businesses, have built on the founders dream.
