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Sustainable Property
Sustonica, the first global sustainability standard for holiday lets.
Our aim is to create lasting holiday memories and we intend to do so both responsibly and sustainably.
To deliver on this we've set out a number of environmental and social pledges which help to focus our efforts;
you can read more about them in our Impact Report.
This is why we've partnered with Sustonica, the first global certification for holiday lets,
to support our owners to be more sustainable.
The Sustonica certification focuses on four key areas: energy conservation, water conservation,
waste reduction and promoting inclusiveness. They are on a mission to become the most widely
recognised sustainability standard for holiday rentals and a catalyst to reduce emissions of holiday
lets and influence guests to reduce their own household consumption too.
Properties that display the Sustonica badge have successfully passed the criteria,
which align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council standards,
and their owner has made a commitment to look after our planet as well as you.
Mike & Julie are fantastic & friendly hosts. Everything we needed for a relaxing holiday. Thank You. xx
Christine & Colin, Thankyou so much for your feed back. it was so lovely to meet you both.
Hope to see you again x
Julie and Mike.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Christine5.0★Mar 2025
"Excellent, Stayed last year and was so impressed stayed again this year when we usually like to explore different places."
Its small but has exactly what was needed for a very relaxed short break. The only difficult thing is not loosing track of time and staying up late .
Reviewed by Bryn5.0★Jan 2025
"Really lovely property ideally located for Bury, Norwich, Ipswich and the coast."
We were visiting family pre Christmas so out and about all day. It was lovely to return to a cosy base and clean hot tub each evening. The property is very clean with a decent mattress, decent shower, quality towels and plenty of them and hot tub checked daily when we go out. We have stayed at few places in the area and these are the things that make a difference and we will definitely book again. Owners are on hand if you need them but leave you to enjoy your break. The welcome pack was very good too, plenty of tea, coffee and essentials as well as some special treats which we very much enjoyed. Keep up the good work Mike and Julie, you’ve got something very special here.
Reviewed by Taya5.0★Dec 2024
"We stayed at Red Brick Retreat in November."
Mike the host was great, very friendly, funny and put us instantly at ease. On arrival there was welcome gifts of prosseco, cake, eggs, bread, butter and more. The cottage itself is super cosy, clean and decorated beautifully. It has everything you could need for a break away they haven't forgotten anything. The hot tub is big and very clean and comfortable with built in lights. You're not allowed to go in the hot tub after 10:30pm which isn't ideal for a romantic break but we still loved it. There was no smoking and for this I would suggest allowing a designated outside smoking area as long as guests leave it how they found it. The hot tub was cleaned regularly but unlike some other cottages where the owners turn up without letting you know, Mike would only come through the garden to clean it when he knew we were out or said he would text if we werent going out. Which is really great and adds to the privacy. This cottage is in the owners garden and is right next to their house and the neighbours, this wasn't a problem for us but if you're looking for something more remote then it is worth noting. The bed was super comfortable. Nothing was too much trouble for Mike he was very kind and a great host. We've given 5stars because it deserves 5stars.
Reviewed by Emma5.0★Nov 2024
"We had a lovely time!"
The cottage was lovely and clean and Mike the host was amazing! The hot tub was brilliant!
Reviewed by Megan5.0★Nov 2024
"A great wee retreat in a good spot."
Diss railway station took us to Cambridge, Bury st Edmond’s and the Norfolk Broads. A good wee golf course in Diss as well. Julie and Mike were very friendly and welcoming, taking time to settle us in. There was a lovely welcome pack too. We had one minor issue and it was dealt with quickly and pleasantly. Couldn’t ask for more. We would recommend the Retreat to anyone.
Thank you Blair and Wilma for your comments and your lovely card and chocolates. Julie and Mike.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Blair5.0★Oct 2024
"Amazing retreat!"
So cosy and comfortable and has everything you need for your stay including some welcome treats which were highly appreciated. The bed is super comfy and the hot tub is a fantastic way to relax. The hosts have truly made a beautiful retreat and Mike met us on arrival and showed us the workings of things we needed to know. We would highly recommend this to any couple as the perfect get away.
Reviewed by Lisa5.0★Oct 2024
"We had a delightful stay at the Red Brick Retreat."
Julie and Mike were very welcoming. The hot tub was lovely and immaculate, as was the retreat. We will be staying again. 10/10 all round!
Reviewed by Emma5.0★Sep 2024
"Mike was an absolute gentleman couldn’t wish for a better host."
Loved the welcoming pack.cake to die for
Reviewed by Julie5.0★Sep 2024
"From the moment me and my partner arrived to the moment we left Mike and Julie made us feel extremely welcome ."
We was only there for a 2 day romantic break but on arrival we had a prosecco waiting for us along with a lovely piece of cake. The red brick retreat was exactly what we needed and we struck gold finding this place when we arrived it was immaculate and was a home from home we made full use of the facilities not to mention relaxing in the hot tub after a day on the Norfolk broads. I cannot recommend this place enough and without a doubt we will be back for a longer visit .
Reviewed by Nicholas5.0★Aug 2024
"Beautiful property offering all luxuries of home."
Only downside was the proximity to a fairly busy road.
Hi Susan and Stuart. We are devastated and so sorry that you found the road to be fairly busy. Good news though, we've researched this and found that the A12 was partially closed and the A14 had road works on it, which caused a very unusual amount of traffic on the road, it has now quietened down considerably.
We do hope this has not deterred you from returning to us again.
Best wishes. Julie and Mike.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Susan5.0★Aug 2024
"Do not have a negative thing to say about the red brick retreat it was just perfect from the location to the hot tub and everything in between."
The accommodation was top class well equipped with everything needed for our short break with the added bonus of the lovely welcoming gifts fresh cake and prosecco and lots more to be enjoyed. Mike and julie well done for creating a small piece of heaven .Definitely will be booking again.
Reviewed by Claire5.0★Jul 2024
"The cottage is fabulous what can you say about the hot tub wow superbly maintained everything you could wish for."
Mike and Julie are the perfect hosts. The welcome pack was greatly appreciated plus all the little extras that were provided were wonderful. The bed was so comfortable the place so clean in fact we couldn’t find anything that was even the slightest bit negative. I would recommend this place to anyone.
Hi Ephreene and Ian.
thankyou so much for your lovely comments. We are so pleased you both enjoyed your stay with us in Red Brick Retreat. We do hope to see you again soon. Best wishes, Mike and Julie x
Property Owner
Reviewed by Ian5.0★Jul 2024
"Beautifully presented and a very warm welcome including a welcome pack
Great base for touring around and every comfort included."
Reviewed by Jim5.0★Jun 2024
"Totally amazing stay we had a fantastic time really couldn’t fault a thing about the property or are hosts very lovely people thanks so much we will be back."
Reviewed by Roger5.0★Jun 2024
"We stayed here from the 3rd to the 6th june and it was just perfect."
One of the deciding factors of booking here was that the hot tub was covered which came in very handy when it poured down one afternoon!
On arrival there was cake, juice and Prosecco amongst other things and after 5 hour drive coffee and cake went down a treat.
The property was immaculate all the way through and the kingsize bed was very comfy.
Im already planning another stay for next year!
Hi Louise, thankyou so much for your lovely review on the Red Brick Retreat..... We look forward to you coming again and enjoying the same and lots more.
kindest regards. Julie & Mike.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Louise5.0★Jun 2024
"Lovely host, very helpful and friendly."
The retreat was very nice and the welcome pack was a lovely touch. A nice place to go and relax from the hustle and bustle of work.
Reviewed by Nathan5.0★May 2024
"Cannot fault the property at all the place is amazing."
Every detail has been thought of. This was our first little break away as a new couple and we had an amazing amazing time. Cannot recommend red brick retreat enough we will happily return in the not too distant future. Thank you again to our hosts who made our short little break one to remember.
Hi Paul. We thank you so much for your kind feed back and we are so pleased you both enjoyed your stay with us in the Red Brick Retreat.
We look forward to seeing you again soon. Best wishes, Julie & Mike.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Paul5.0★May 2024
"Wonderful little cottage."
We had a fantatsic time staying here. Hosts very friendly and warm plus very helpfull. The welcoming pack was excellent, especially the free range eggs.
Thankyou so much Trevor for your lovely feedback.
We are pleased that you both had a relaxing break and hope to see you again soon. Best wishes, Julie and Mike.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Trevor5.0★May 2024
"This property exceeded our expectations, everything you require is available and maintained to a very high standard."
Mike and Julie were the perfect hosts, available when required but leaving us to enjoy the peace and tranquility. Would recommend red brick retreat to anyone looking for a relaxing break from the stress of modern living
Hi Doug. Thankyou for your feedback, it was lovely to see you both to enjoy our Red Brick Retreat.
Hope to see you both again in the future. Best wishes. Julie and Mike.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Douglas5.0★May 2024
"Brilliant time enjoyed at the cottage."
Thankyou
Hi. Thankyou for your great feed back and it was a pleasure having your company at the Red Brick Retreat. Best wishes, Julie and Mike.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Mandy5.0★Apr 2024
"We had an amazing time - the place is stunning ."
The hosts are very welcoming and noting is too much trouble.
We would be happy to come back
Reviewed by Agnieszka5.0★Mar 2024
"Lovely 10/10 establishment !"
!!! Would highly recommend
Reviewed by Brad5.0★Mar 2024
"What a lovely little place with everything you could need for a home from home stay."
The little extras that were added were such a lovely touch, the cake and prosecco went down a treat. Even the hot tub area was made homely and welcoming. We really enjoyed our stay and would definitely recommend to friends. Mike and Julie the hosts, are so friendly and on hand to help out if needed but leave you to just enjoy your holiday, you couldn't wish for better hosts with lots of knowledge about the area. Lots of places to go and visit if you don't mind a drive out and nice places to eat or order in a takeaway. And final note, the bed was so comfortable we didn't want to leave.
Hi Claire.
Thank you both for the lovely message you have sent and we are so pleased you had an enjoyable stay.
We hope you will return and carry on enjoying The Red Brick Retreat x
Julie & Mike.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Clare5.0★Feb 2024
"Excellent welcome pack including wine, bread, and home made cake."
a warm and inviting property with the hot tube well maintained. Owners close at hand should they be needed, Plenty of parking room. Felt very comfortable.
Reviewed by Michael5.0★Feb 2024
"Excellent place to stay."
good introduction by owner then only contact if wanted. Had no problems everything worked was warm and comfortable and perfect for couples wanting an intimate break together.
Reviewed by Bryn5.0★Jan 2024
"Red Brick retreat is a very well appointed, cozy, comfortable, well positioned place to stay."
Dark skies provided great views of the stars at night.
Mike and Julie are very welcoming and helpful, provided a generous welcome package that was much appreciated and who doesn’t love a hot tub.
We really enjoyed our time there.
Reviewed by Lee5.0★Nov 2023
"The cottage was lovely, warm and cozy."
It was perfect for a short break away. The hot tub was a perfect temperature for the cold evenings and luxurious. Also wasn’t expecting all the complimentary treats left for us including a bottle of Prosecco. Would recommend!
Reviewed by Isabel4.7★Oct 2023
"Lovely holiday let, we have stayed twice now and its great, brilliant location, superbly presented and cosy hot tub, mike and julie are superb hosts, will return again."
Thanks guys
Reviewed by Matthew5.0★Sep 2023
"Absolutely love this little gem so central to get anywhere Mike and Julie are lovely hosts nothing is too much trouble."
This is the 2nd time we have stayed here ,and definitely would return in the future
Reviewed by Debra5.0★Sep 2023
"Very nice property, we really enjoyed staying there."
The host was very friendly and helpful, the welcome pack was amazing
Reviewed by Anthony5.0★Sep 2023
"Mike and Julie really looked after us and the house was perfectly set up."
Every detail was well though out and made it a home from home.
Reviewed by Emily5.0★Aug 2023
"We stayed for 3 nights."
Every detail was well thought out - right down to a reserved parking space. We loved our stay from start to finish and could not fault it. The hot tub was definitely a highlight and the welcome pack of goodies was delicious. Julie and Mike were brilliant! We would have no hesitation recommending!
Reviewed by Ayah5.0★Aug 2023
"My wife and I throughly enjoyed our stay."
The welcome we received from Mike & Julie made us feel at home immediately. A thorough tour of the property was given to us along with detailed explanations of the main facilities. The owners were always happy to help whenever needed. A five star cottage , strongly recommended.
Reviewed by Alan5.0★Jul 2023
"Lovely property hosted by two excellent owners."
Hot tub a real treat!
Reviewed by Linda5.0★Jun 2023
"We had a fantastic weeks holiday."
Perfect accommodation, very clean, comfortable and well appointed. Mike and Julie were the perfect hosts, nothing was too much trouble. Welcome pack and hot tub were an added bonus. Only wish we could have stayed longer!
Reviewed by Peter5.0★Jun 2023
"Perfect from start to finish, lovely touches through out."
Couldn’t have asked for a better stay or better welcome.
Reviewed by Jordan5.0★May 2023
"What a fantastic find this place was, we were not disappointed and spent a wonderful weekend just relaxing in this excellently renovated building and most importantly the hot tub which was beyond all expectations, Mike and Julie were very welcoming and the hosts of hosts with their exceptional eye for detail and such a lovely thought out welcome pack on arrival."
I would give more than 5 stars and would recommend to family and friends and most definitely be returning later in the year. Thank you Mike and Julie it was such a pleasure. Debbie and Andrew.
Reviewed by Debbie-jo5.0★May 2023
"My partner and I had a lovely break at the red brick retreat!"
I would recommend 1000 times. Mike and Julie showed us around the beautiful property and made us feel very welcome with some lovely cakes, Prosecco and other goodies. It was a very relaxing retreat and the hot tub was amazing! I will definitely be booking to stay again. Lots of local shops!
The only downside is the chickens on site did wake us up a few times in the early hours.
Overall I highly recommend!
Reviewed by Rosie5.0★Jan 2023
"Lovely place."
Owners had thought of everything even provided a lovely care package with everything you need. Very cosy and modern would definitely recommend.
Reviewed by Kerry4.7★Oct 2022
"Had the most amazing few days here lovely home made cake on arrival beautiful ..."
Had the most amazing few days here lovely home made cake on arrival beautiful place central too loads of places will definitely return Mike and Julie are so accommodating nothing is to much trouble
Reviewed by Debra5.0★Sep 2022
"Perfect little getaway."
Really relaxing area and the hosts were amazing. Welcome package on arrival added that extra touch. Such a peaceful few nights away!
Reviewed by Emily5.0★Aug 2022
"An absolutely perfect property to unwind and relax in, with attention to detail here being 5*."
Hot tub was tested daily and was spotlessly clean every day, as was the property when we arrived. Beautiful welcome pack to include the essentials needed for your immediate needs along with a lovely home made cake. The hosts were wonderful and friendly, but did not encroach on your privacy at all. Can’t wait to return later this year. Thank you
Reviewed by Deane5.0★Aug 2022
"Lovely hosts, welcome package was amazing, everything in accommodation was excellent quality."
Would highly recommend
Reviewed by Janet5.0★Jul 2022
"What a lovely property."
Lots of thought had gone into the accommodation which meant we had everything we needed and more. Loved the sliding cover over the jacuzzi. The hosts were very welcoming and helpful.
Reviewed by Kenrick5.0★Jul 2022
"Beautifully kept and managed property very friendly hosts and excellent welcome pack Prosecco in the hot tub say no more!"
Highly recommend Walk to Diss an easy and relaxing walk
Well done Mike and Julie !
It was so nice to have you both as our guests, we are equally so happy you have enjoyed your selves while you were with us. Hope to see you both again soon. Julie and Mike x
Property Owner
Reviewed by Tony5.0★Jul 2022
"Really really nice place to stay, mike and his wife couldn't do enough for us, brilliant hosts, very well specced with the air con and hot tub being delightful after a hot journey to get there, great nights sleep as the bed was lovely, would stay again anytime, 10 out of 10 guys."
Thank you Matthew for your kind words, we feel everyone comes as strangers and leaves us as friend and you both are certainly that.
Look forward to seeing you again soon. Cheers, Julie and Mike x
Property Owner
Reviewed by Matthew5.0★Jun 2022
"An excellent little retreat a great place to unwind just what the doctor ordered."
Mike and Julie are very nice people friendly, helpful and welcoming in every way they made our stay just wonderfulso much so we would definitely go again
Reviewed by Phillip5.0★Jun 2022
"The property was excellent , clean ,well equipped , everything was provided
that you would need for you stay , the welcome pack was the best we have ever had ."
The hot tub was super , well maintained spotlessly clean .
Reviewed by John5.0★Jun 2022
"The retreat was very well equipped with all mod cons ,
lovely welcome pack , incl fresh eggs from their free range chickens ,very friendly and attentive owners( if needed ), hot tub lovely for a relax ."
All adds up to a relaxing break
Reviewed by David5.0★May 2022
"Red Brick Retreat is an outstanding cottage where the hosts Mike and Julie made us feel extremely welcome."
The location coupled with the accommodation made our short stay most enjoyable. The cottage itself has everything you would want with the added bonus of a private Hot tub. This was only our second stay at a Sykes Cottage but I can assure the reader my wife and I will be using Sykescottages again.
Reviewed by Ian5.0★May 2022
"The place was absolutely spotless and you can see the care put into it."
ALL the little details really made it, such as, cake, eggs, butter, milk ect there waiting for us, robes, plenty of towels, skimmer for hottub and more. We were welcomed with a friendly Mike who wasn't in a rush to show us around and make sure we were happy with everything.
Even though Mike and Julie's property, along with a neighbours, was just behind us, you completely forgot they were there as you rarely saw anyone and had complete privacy in the back garden/hottub where you are encased in your own little sanctuary with all mod cons.
The cleanliness was top notch, even the hottub looked like it was brand new and wasn't overfilled with chemicals.
If you are after a couples getaway, this is definitely the place to go.
Thank you so much
Reviewed by Lizzie5.0★May 2022
"Amazing place to stay."
Lovely friendly owners. Beautiful property with so much attention to detail. Perfect place for a mini break. Loved it.
Reviewed by Linda5.0★May 2022
"The perfect retreat."
The owners have thought of everything for guests comfort. A great location to explore the surrounding areas. Would highly recommend this property and we hope to return very soon
Reviewed by Hayley5.0★Apr 2022
"We were welcomed from the moment we arrived and given a tour of the property which was helpful."
The owners gave us little welcome bits like wine, Prosecco, homemade cakes, bread, eggs, milk etc. The property was perfectly clean throughout and was modernised which was a surprise. The only issues were that because the property is new, there were some maintenance issues.
Hi Caitlin. Thank you so much for your valuable feed back, yes everything in the Retreat is brand new, We have now put in place a strick maintenance programme. We have tightened up the small shower head and the other item, also we have put in your suggestion of small side plates... Thank you for that. Mike and Julie.
Property Owner
Reviewed by Caitlin5.0★Apr 2022
"Honestly had an amazing weekend!"
Was an absolutely beautiful place to stay! The hosts were so welcoming!
Reviewed by Danielle5.0★Apr 2022
"Hosts were excellent cottage was perfect in every way ,recommend to anyone would use again."
Thanks for lovely stay.
Reviewed by Denis5.0★Apr 2022
"Really beautiful location and sweet and cozy house."
Mike and Julie couldnt of been nicer to both of us and went above and beyond to make our stay as enjoyable as possible. Would recommend this retreat to anyone
This property was awarded a 2024 Sykes Star for scoring consistently perfect feedback from guests
Single-storey
One King-size bedroom with en-suite walk-in shower, basin and WC
Open-plan living space with kitchen, dining area and sitting area with bio-fuel fire
Air source heating with air conditioning and humidifier, eco friendly plant based bio-fuel fire
Electric oven and hob, kettle, toaster, microwave, fridge, dishwasher, coffee machine
Smart TV, WiFi
Fuel and power inc. in rent
Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
Off-road parking for 1 car
Rear enclosed decked courtyard with hot tub, furniture, tripod BBQ and retractable awning and front gravelled area, furniture and bike storage
Sorry, no pets, no smoking
Shop 1.4 miles, pub 1.7 miles
No children or infants accepted.Note: Property has a minimum of a 3 night stay
The property
Red Brick Retreat is A delightful outhouse conversion settled on the grounds of the owners home in Diss, Suffolk.
Renovated to a high-standard whilst enjoying peaceful views across the surrounding farmland, Red Brick Retreat makes an idyllic base for a romantic escape to the country.
Park up in the off-road space provided at the foot of this wonderful abode and unload your belongings with ease, making your way through the well-kept front garden and into your new home-from-home.
A lengthy journey calls for rest, so put your feet up and unwind with a sumptuous spot in front of the television as the eco friendly plant based bio-fuel fire crackles nearby, or soak in the sights across the peaceful farmland with a cup of tea and a seat out front.
In the morning this is tranquil spot to enjoy the sunrise as it creeps across the horizon.
A well-equipped kitchen is tucked away in the corner of the sociable open-plan living space; rustle up a hearty meal for two to be enjoyed over candle light at the dining table, or make mealtimes an alfresco affair and fire up the BBQ.
Add a touch of luxury to your retreat and end the day with a dip exploring on your bike or under a canopy of stars with a seat in the bubbling hot tub.
As the day draws to a close, prepare for bed with a quick rinse in the en-suite shower room before snuggling up under the covers of the King-size bed to catch your rest ahead of a new day.
You'll find all of your local amenities in the market town of Diss, with a variety of high-street and independent stores decorating the picture-perfect streets, along with a delicious collection of eateries to choose from, ranging from traditional country pubs to cafes and elegant restaurants.
The tranquil grounds of Diss Park offer a wonderful spot to stretch your legs; watch the world go by as you watch the fountains dance over the glistening waters of Diss Mere, or visit Corn hall a lottery funded entertainment hall which people can go and watch theatre and comedy night and film night along with a few tribute bands as well.
If that's not your thing, why not visit Diss Golf Club or Diss Museum?
The towering woodland of Thetford Forest Park is easily accessible, home to a network of walking trails and scenic sights, providing a real haven for the outdoor adventurer, whilst in the opposite direction, the glorious sands of Corton beach can be found along the coast of Lowestoft.
Budding historians will delight with a visit to Bury St Edmunds, where you can tour Suffolk Regiment Museum, discover the The Abbey Ruins, or take a seat on The World's First Internet Bench.
With so much to see and do, choose Red Brick Retreat as your base to explore Suffolk and Norfolk.
Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £150.
View on map
Where you’ll be staying
DISS
Bury St. Edmunds 22 miles; Norwich 23 miles.
Diss is a popular rural market town in the south of Norfolk, where its buildings offer examples of gothic architecture, and an insight of the town's past life can be found within the local museum. The market place is the hub of the town, which is overlooked by its beautiful 13th century church. At the bottom of the town is Diss Mere, a 6-acre lake with a fountain that runs all day, along with its adjacent park where you can relax while watching the world pass you by, making this a truly idyllic location. Diss has narrow winding streets with secret little courtyards, and a high street offering an array of small shops and tea rooms. On Friday the high street is home to the weekly market and to the edge of town a weekly auction is held in the local salesrooms. To the other side edge of Diss you will find its 18 hole golf course. Walkers can explore the Boudica Way, a wonderful 40 mile walk from Diss to the medieval city of Norwich. Approximately 2 miles from Diss is Bressingham, with its Steam Museum,17 acres of beautiful gardens, garden centre, restaurant, and the Dad’s Army collection where you can wander through Walmington-on-Sea with its original props and vehicles from the TV series. Other local attractions include Banham Zoo, the 100th Bomb Group Museum, along with the many attractions and amenities to be found in the cathedral city of Norwich.
