Kingfishers’ Land
Nestled on the edge of the ancient Suffolk village of Cretingham, Wildlands was originally a pasture and arable farm. The land follows the meandering course of the River Deben through water meadows and into wooded carr. Mature thorn and maple hedges form natural dividing lines between fields, copses of native poplar, oak and ash trees are dotted along the gentle north-west slope of the river valley.
At the end of the twentieth century the network of small fields was landscaped into a golf course. Whilst tree planting offered habitat for wildlife and the soil was protected from intensive farming, the project ultimately tamed the natural wilderness of the land.
When Wildlands owners Matt and Claire became custodians, they observed nature reclaiming un-managed pockets of the site and the abundance of flora and fauna that swiftly returned. This inspired them to create a sustainable future for the land, closing the golf course and committing to returning all of Wildlands’ Estate to its wild roots.
Our Partners
We are working closely with DCS Ecology and a number of wildlife organisations and charities including Suffolk Wildlife Trust, The Woodland Trust, The Forestry Commission, Farmer’s Wildlife Advisory Group, WildEast, Suffolk Environmental Projects and the RSPB. Together we are building a wilding plan which will create a sustainable biodiverse landscape for the future.
Exciting projects include sixty acres of new woodland which will be maintained using natural land management methods such as silvopasture and agroforestry. We are also undergoing organic certification and plan to create a biodynamic vineyard offering local wines.
An ecology team is working to enhance our streams and water meadows, restoring existing ponds and creating new ponds to offer additional habitat for wetland wildlife.
Stay at Wildlands
Passionate about sharing the benefits of being immersed in nature in its truest form, Wildlands offers a variety of boutique sustainably built and managed accommodation. Whether you are looking for an adventure in our underground Hobbit House, seeking a close connection to nature in our wild camping meadow, or the sanctuary of our luxe wooden cabins, there is something for everyone. Take an early restorative woodland walk and watch the roe deer drifting out from the shade at sunrise. Mindfully follow the meandering streams where you may spot kingfishers or otters at play. As the sun sets, wander the meadows where hares box and barn owls swoop over the long grass as the day draws to a close. Sip a glass of wine or warm your hands on a hot chocolate around the camp fire, savoring the starlit night sky and the tranquility of life at Wildlands.
