Your hosts, Sheila and Alan Smyth, both grew up in Hadleigh, Suffolk, England and remained there until 1973 when they began their journey across the world. They landed in Port Elizabeth, South Africa in September 1973 where Alan was involved with many major construction contracts. In 1980, they immigrated to Canada with their two daughters and landed in Edmonton in March 1980. More major construction contracts eventually led to a very enjoyable period in Regina, Saskatchewan before finally returning to Edmonton.

Sheila always had a “dream” to open a bed and breakfast. The opportunity came when they discovered the lake lot in Antler Lake in September 1999; building began the following February and Suffolk House opened for business January 1, 2001. The bed and breakfast was named “Suffolk House” to maintain the historical roots of their families.

The Coat of Arms featured on all advertising, originally belonged to the West Suffolk County Council. The cross and five martlets come from the coat of arms of Edward the Confessor, who granted the area of the future county council to the Abbey of Bury St. Edmunds; the mitres represent the abbey. The crown and arrows recall St. Edmund, martyred by the Danes in 869 A.D. The motto harks back to the part played by Bury St. Edmunds in events leading to the granting of the Magna Carta. The West Suffolk and East Suffolk County Councils ceased to exist in 1974 when Suffolk County Council was created. The current County Council has no further interest in this coat of arms and permission was given to use it in the marketing of Suffolk House Bed and Breakfast.

Sheila and Alan have had the pleasure of welcoming many wonderful guests from around the globe and nothing brings them more pleasure than the friendships they have made and the satisfaction of knowing they have provided guests with best services possible.

They hope to see you soon for your unforgettable first class experience!