The Ickworth Hotel and Spa, a Luxury Family Hotels property near Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk, has reopened following a six-month closure and full refurbishment. The hotel offers a two-bedroom suite from £530 per night and Cosy Rooms from £205 per night, with every stay including two complimentary hours at its Ofsted-registered kids' club, the Four Bears Den, for children aged three months to eight years.
First impressions and rooms
Set on the National Trust Ickworth estate, the hotel pairs the historic house with modern festoon lighting leading to the entrance. The two-bedroom Theodora suite features a spacious master bedroom, a generously sized children's room, and a bathroom with twin sinks. Interiors blend heritage references with playful touches, such as horsey artwork alongside jazzy curtains.
The Cosy Rooms are considerably smaller, with one guest noting the bed was two twins pushed together, creating a gap in the night. The hotel has a lift between floors and ramp access, so accessibility was not an issue.
Grounds, facilities and childcare
Families can enjoy lawn games, a playpark with musical instruments, a swing, mini trampoline and slide, plus a mud kitchen, a giant giraffe statue and two resident bunnies. Older children have access to a games room, cinema and tennis court. The spa, set in a walled garden, includes a hot tub, sauna and steam room, with a pool available on site during child-specific hours.
Childcare staff double-checked details about a two-year-old at drop-off, including where an EpiPen would be kept and reassurance about toilet training. Staff also took time to welcome and calm a tearful child, demonstrating a nurturing approach.
Dining and service
The Conservatory restaurant is designed for families, offering meals for all ages including purée for babies, plus high chairs, sippy cups, bibs and toddler-friendly cutlery. Complimentary crudités are served at 5pm. Grown-up options include fish and chips, a burger, handmade pappardelle, cheese soufflé and pan-roasted trout, with desserts a highlight.
Service was mixed: staff were excellent with children, but waits for drinks and lunch were longer than expected. A previous guest's food was found in the fridge, and requested toddler toilet seat and steps were not in the room on arrival. These teething problems mean the hotel currently falls just short of luxury.
Overall, The Ickworth offers a relaxed, multi-generational family holiday with plenty of activities without being overly programmed. Given a few weeks to settle after the refurbishment, it is expected to be faultless.
