Nanyuki, Kenya
Sutton Hoo is an English-style country house transplanted onto the Kenyan countryside at the foot of Mt Kenya, offering classic comfort. Think comfortable beds with thick duvets, formal sitting room, and a large kitchen.
Price
Ksh 12,500 for a double room; Ksh 6,500 for single occupancy. Children under five go free. Nanny accommodation available.
Strengths
Sutton Hoo, owned and hosted by Amelia and Dicky Leach, represents a step up in comfort from most Air BnB offerings. It feels like stepping into an English country hotel but for half the price.
Weaknesses
Those expecting a more Kenyan feel to their accommodation might be disappointed. Sutton Hoo is a European-style mansion more befitting to southern England than it is to Mt Kenya. Given that the house was only completed in the last few years, the garden does not have any mature trees, and can appear a little stark.
Style and character
Sutton Hoo is a lavish country home. It was only recently completed, and the gardens have not yet had time to mature. Walking into the house is like entering a sprawling county mansion in the British countryside, replete with panelled walls, high ceilings, and mahogany furnishings. Outside is a pool, although a cold wind can blow off Mt Kenya, potentially deterring even the most determined of swimmers.
Location
Situated close to the air strip just south of Nanyuki, Sutton Hoo is a handy stopping-off point if heading north, or for exploring the Nanyuki area, including Mt Kenya, Ol Pejeta and Ngare Ndare. There are several good restaurants within a short driving distance, including Soames and Barney’s.
Service and Facilities
Guests are hosted by Amelia and Dicky, who have two young twins of their own. Both exude genuine warmth towards their guests, and make for interesting and informed conversation. Breakfast is provided within the price. Guests can also request dinner, costing Ksh 2,000 pp. Bring your own alcohol.
- Games Room
- Pool
- Parking
- Video Library
Rooms
The bedrooms are airy and attractively-furnished, made up with thick, white duvets thrown over brass-knobbed beds. The rooms overlook the gardens at both the front and back of the property, and are en suite with modern bathrooms, with claw-foot baths giving an added touch of class. The hosts are flexible and will make arrangements for those travelling with kids.
Food and Drink
The hosts provide an English breakfast, and guests should remember that they are in a family home, and not a hotel. At the time of reviewing, dinner was not an available option, so we can’t speak more extensively about the food.
Value for money?
For a family home, Sutton Hoo may feel expensive to some.
Family Friendly?
Children are welcome at Sutton Hoo, and the owners are well-equipped to handle small kids with fussy dietary needs. Whether you want to swing your kids in the small play area outside or plonk them in front of the latest Disney classic on a wide-screen TV, Sutton Hoo has you covered.
Contact amelia.leach@icloud.com
Reviewed June 2017 by Catrina Stewart
