There are few places in Britain more picturesque than Constable Country in Suffolk. Set within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty just over an hour from London, this rural landscape was where the painter John Constable was born, and where he painted his most celebrated works.

John Constable was born in 1776 in East Bergholt, a village on the River Stour in Suffolk. Of all the paintings by John Constable, the most famous is The Hay Wain, depicting a horse and cart crossing the River Stour, a white cottage visible on the left bank. The place in the painting is Flatford, and like so much of Constable Country, it remains unchanged to this day. 

The Lion makes a great base to explore some of the best that Essex and Suffolk has to offer. East Bergholt is conveniently located for visiting:

Colchester
Ipswich
Dedham Vale (AONB)
Manningtree
Hadleigh
Harwich & Felixstowe

OUR LOCATION

The Lion is located in the centre of East Bergholt, only metres away from John Constable’s birthplace, his studio and stables. We have a free car park and are located just a couple of minutes off the A12.

We look forward to welcoming you with our sense of fun and indulgence. We can’t wait to see you.

The St, East Bergholt, Colchester CO7 6TB
The serious bit... Given our location in the centre of the beautiful village of East Bergholt, we are keen to ensure that all guests park safely whilst you enjoy your stay with us.For bookings of 6 & above please call one of the Lion Team on 01206 803406.Please can we respectfully ask you to park your vehicle in the free Red Lion car park, located at the rear of The Lion.Dogs are more than welcome on our outside terrace, but not inside The Lion. Many thanks. Team Lion.