Needham Lake Visitor Centre and Café 

In May 2022, the visitor centre and café at Needham Lake, named the Duck and Teapot, opened to the public. 

Located at one of Suffolk’s most popular free tourist destinations, the SEH French team thoroughly enjoyed working on this project. 

We worked on behalf of Mid Suffolk District Council to provide this facility, designed to complement the natural surroundings. As a very welcome addition to Needham Lake, it will undoubtedly provide a boost to the local area, as well as a popular meeting place. 

SEH French have supported Mid Suffolk District Council’s climate change ambitions within the build. To increase the sustainability of the facility, solar panels have been installed on the roof and sustainable building materials were used throughout. Also, an air source heat pump has been provided to remove the need for gas and it also includes sustainable drainage. 

It was important to ensure everyone has the opportunity and ability to enjoy the new building at Needham Lake. Therefore, provision of a Changing Places facility with fully accessible and spacious toilets was included in the build. 

The large glass doors paves the way for natural light to enter the building, while the outer decking area boasts views of the Duck & Teapot’s surroundings. In order to support local wildlife, bird boxes have also been installed on parts of the exterior. 

The facility also includes a community space available for hire by groups during the day and evenings. 

Many of our staff have fond memories of visiting Needham Lake with friends and family. So, we are happy to have provided a facility which will create memories for years to come. 

You can find out more about our work by visiting the What We Do page, or get in touch with a member of the team.