Hotels
United Kingdom
Thorpeness
The Dolphin Inn
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53 photos
The Dolphin Inn Thorpeness Exterior photoThe Dolphin Inn Thorpeness Exterior photoThe Dolphin Inn Thorpeness Exterior photo
Book on our site
up to 10% cheaper
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Check rooms and rates
From200US$ /night
Check-in
03Jun2026Select date
Check-out
04Jun2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Old Homes Road, Thorpeness, United Kingdom, IP16 4FE
-
Close to the beach
Perfect
9.1
8.8
/10
3.0
4.4
/5

Dining and Bar Area

The Dolphin Inn includes a vibrant beer garden that caters to both locals and visitors. The kitchen offers a variety of tasty offerings throughout the summer months. Notable weekly specials include Vegan Thursdays and the Sunday Roast and Crumble deal, which provide excellent value.

Location

Situated in the picturesque village of Thorpeness, The Dolphin Inn is a convenient stop for beach lovers and day trippers. Guests have easy access to nearby recreational activities, including windsurfing and sailing. The iconic Thorpeness Meare, a large boating lake, is just moments away.

Entertainment

The Dolphin Inn's beer garden often attracts a lively crowd, especially during the summer months. The proximity to the beach offers additional entertainment options for guests, including water sports and nature walks. This lively atmosphere makes the inn a popular spot for summer gatherings.

Family-Friendly

The Dolphin Inn provides a welcoming environment suitable for families visiting Thorpeness. Guests may engage in outdoor activities such as boating and swimming in the nearby lake. The inn's dining options include meals that cater to children's preferences.

Community Engagement

The Dolphin Inn is known for fostering community ties by hosting events and activities that engage both locals and visitors. This creates vibrant interaction and a lively social scene. Guests can participate in various events throughout the summer, enhancing their experience at the inn.

Highlights

Dining: Beer garden serving various summer dishes

Location: Close to Thorpeness Meare and beach

Entertainment: Lively summer gatherings

Family-Friendly: Engaging outdoor activities for children

Must-do experiences

  • Stroll through the charming streets of Thorpeness and admire its architecture.
  • Visit the iconic Thorpeness Meare for a scenic boat ride or picnic.
  • Savor local seafood at The Dolphin Inn's restaurant, especially the crab cakes.
  • Discover the history of the area at the Thorpeness Windmill-climb for views.
  • Attend a local art workshop at Thorpeness Village Hall for creative fun.
View all

Select your room type

The Dolphin Inn offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Standard Double Room
Standard Double Room
2 persons
260 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Heating
Bathtub
room details

Price and Room Availability Calendar

Check availability and prices for your dates now!

Facilities

The Dolphin Inn offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Perfect
9.0/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Parking
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Pets allowed
  • 24-hour security
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Hiking
  • Cycling
  • Golf course
  • Fishing

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area

Children

  • Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

  • Beach access
  • Garden area

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Terrace
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
Show more

Dining Onsite

At The Dolphin Inn, guests can embark on a delightful culinary adventure, with a focus on British and European dishes that cater to all dietary preferences. The family-friendly environment, complimented by a modern aesthetic, invites relaxation and enjoyment at every meal.
The Dolphin Inn Thorpeness Restaurant photo
The Dolphin Inn Thorpeness Restaurant photo
The Dolphin Inn Thorpeness Restaurant photo

Dolphin Inn Restaurant

British and European cuisine
Ambiance
A cozy, family-friendly setting with modern decor and outdoor seating in a lovely garden terrace.
Key Offerings
Specialties include a popular steak deal featuring Salter and King steaks, alongside delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes every Thursday. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served, making it a versatile choice for all occasions.
Reservation
Not needed
Monday: 08:00 - 09:30, Tuesday to Saturday: 08:00 - 20:00, Sunday: 08:00 - 19:00

The Dolphin Bar

Light bites and beverages
Ambiance
A welcoming bar experience that complements the dining options, perfect for a relaxing drink or light fare with friends and family.
Key Offerings
With a selection of refreshing drinks and snacks, it's ideal for a casual gathering or unwinding after a day at the beach.
Reservation
Not needed
Hours vary; check with the establishment.

Dolphin Inn Garden

Outdoor dining experience
Ambiance
A charming garden setting that invites guests to enjoy meals al fresco, surrounded by nature.
Key Offerings
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast or lunch under the sky, with special tea and coffee on festive days like Good Friday.
Reservation
Not needed
Open during restaurant operating hours.

The Dolphin Inn Location

Old Homes Road, Thorpeness, United Kingdom, IP16 4FE
Map view
Old Homes Road, Thorpeness, United Kingdom, IP16 4FE
City landmarks
Museum
The Red House
1.6 mi
Landmark
RSPB North Warren
1.3 mi
Landmark
The Scallop at Aldeburgh Beach
1.4 mi
Museum
Aldeburgh Museum
1.9 mi
Beach
Sizewell Beach
1.9 mi
Museum
The Long Shop Museum
2.4 mi
Beach
Aldeburgh Beach
2.0 mi
Landmark
Saint Peter and Saint Paul's
2.0 mi
Landmark
Sizewell B Visitor Centre
2.4 mi
Landmark
The David Silver Honda Collection
2.7 mi
Monastery
Leiston Abbey
3.1 mi
Nearby
House in the Clouds
1100 ft
12A Uplands Rd
Thorpeness Windmill
1500 ft
Restaurants
The Meare Shop and Tearoom
1600 ft
Aldeburgh Road
Explore Thorpeness
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
The House in the Clouds
4-minute walk
An iconic 19th-century house built on a water tower, offering stunning views and a unique architectural experience.
Thorpeness Windmill
Thorpeness Windmill
6-minute walk
A picturesque windmill with a historical charm, perfect for photography and enjoying the surrounding scenery.
The Scallop at Aldeburgh Beach
25-minute walk
A striking seaside sculpture celebrating composer Benjamin Britten, situated on a beautiful beach perfect for walks.
Aldeburgh Museum
Aldeburgh Museum
35-minute walk
A museum showcasing the local history, including artifacts from the fishing industry and a maritime heritage exhibit.
Kayaking on the Meare
6-minute walk
Kayaking rentals available on the Meare; a relaxing waterway experience suited for families and solo adventurers.
RSPB North Warren
RSPB North Warren
25-minute walk
A nature reserve perfect for birdwatching and hiking, accessible year-round for wildlife enthusiasts and peace seekers.
The Meare Shop and Tearoom
The Meare Shop and Tearoom
6-minute walk
Serves traditional teas and local pastries in a cozy atmosphere, ideal for a light meal or afternoon treat.
The Aldeburgh Fish and Chip Shop
5-minute drive
Famous for its fresh fish and chips, this casual eatery offers a taste of local seaside culture; takeout available.
The Crown Hotel Restaurant
5-minute drive
A fine dining venue with a seasonal menu focusing on local ingredients, perfect for an elegant evening out.
Thorpeness Common
4-minute walk
A natural open space great for picnics and casual games, often hosting community events and family gatherings.
The Aldeburgh theatre
5-minute drive
Home to various live performances and film screenings; a cultural hub with something for everyone throughout the year.
Getting around
City Centre
Thorpeness3 min  ·  700 ft
Airports
Norwich International (NWI)117 min  ·  48.5 mi
Cambridge (CBG)174 min  ·  72.0 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-20:00
Check-out
from 08:00-10:00
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Breakfast
At the hotel The Dolphin Inn guests are invited to a full breakfast served for free. 
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Dolphin Inn from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 223 verified reviews
9.0/10
Perfect
89%
Recommend
Cleanliness
9.5/10
Comfort
9.4/10
Facilities
9.0/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.5/10
Location
9.7/10
Staff
9.7/10
Value for money
9.1/10
Guest reviews
based on 223 reviews
9.0/10
based on 179 reviews
9.1/10
Christina from Germany
Couple
Standard Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:February 02, 2026
9.5/10

Fantastic Stay!

fresh milkfriendly staffexcellent breakfast
The room was lovely. I particularly loved the chocolate brownie and fresh milk in the room. The breakfast was excellent. I also had a great evening meal. The staff was very friendly and helpful.
Service
9/10
The staff welcomed me with genuine friendliness. They could not do more to. I felt they were always available to assist with any needs I had.
Rooms
10/10
My room was clean and full of style. The bed was HUGE and very comfortable. The shower worked very well, providing excellent water pressure. I enjoyed the quiet and cosy bedroom a lot!
0 Helpful
|
Show less
Joshua from United Kingdom
Standard Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 07, 2026
9.3/10

Excellent Stay with Great Food

delicious dressingperfectly cooked steakcrispy chips
the food was excellent. i particularly enjoyed the steak offer, perfectly cooked and of excellent value. the salad included a delicious dressing. the chips were freshly cooked and crispy.
the skate main course was acceptable, but not really good.
Facilities
9/10
the inn seems to be a central point in the village, offering a cute atmosphere, and is well-kept throughout the premises, a testament to its importance within the community.
Service
9/10
staff members were friendly and helpful, addressing our needs with efficiency. they were always available.
Rooms
9/10
our room was nice and neat, with thoughtful touches. it offered a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring.
Location
10/10
the inn is situated in a pretty village. it offers opportunities for walks and exploration in the surrounding area.
0 Helpful
|
Show more
Victor from France
Single
standard double room
4 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 20, 2025
5/10
acceptable locationrude staffdisinterested staff
the location was acceptable..
the service was definitely not acceptable. staff were rude and seemed disinterested in assisting guests. it reminded me of they were doing me a favor by acknowledging my presence at the bar, something that left a bad taste in my mouth.
0 Helpful
FAQs
About The Dolphin Inn
What is the policy for check-in and check-out at The Dolphin Inn?
Check-in is from 14:00 and check-out is by 10:30.
What breakfast options are available at The Dolphin Inn?
A Full English/Irish, vegetarian, or vegan breakfast can be enjoyed at the property for an additional charge of 20 GBP.
Which attractions are closest to The Dolphin Inn?
Nearby attractions include Thorpeness Windmill (0.5 km), Aldeburgh Beach (2 km), and Framlingham Castle (24 km).
What are the main dining options at The Dolphin Inn?
The hotel features a restaurant serving British and European cuisine, with a bar area offering a lounge and terrace.
What amenities are featured in the rooms at The Dolphin Inn?
Rooms include flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms with showers and tubs, tea and coffee-making facilities, and free toiletries.
What recreational activities can guests enjoy at The Dolphin Inn?
Guests can enjoy activities such as cycling, fishing, and golf nearby, as well as access to the beach.
How far is The Dolphin Inn from Norwich International Airport?
The hotel is 78 km from Norwich International Airport.
What safety features does The Dolphin Inn offer?
The property features 24-hour security and a non-smoking policy.
Are there any special dietary options available at The Dolphin Inn?
The hotel provides special dietary accommodations, including vegan and gluten-free meals.

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Check-in
03Jun2026Select date
Check-out
04Jun2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
  • Overview
  • Rooms
  • Price calendar
  • Facilities
  • Location
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