Tammy's Tidbits

I’m not usually one for girls’ trips. I love adventuring with my husband and tend to shy away from the “solo-with-friends” trend that seems to be everywhere these days. But sometimes, something pops up that just speaks to you—and that’s exactly what happened when I stumbled across The Pinner House in Suffolk, Virginia on Instagram. It looked so charming and unique and is just under two hours from home. It was the perfect little getaway for my friend Angie, and I.

The idea of staying in a bed and breakfast has never really appealed to me. As a self-proclaimed introvert, the thought of sleeping in a house full of strangers always felt… well, awkward. But The Pinner House surprised me in the best way possible. We pretty much had the house to ourselves, and it was a dream. Located in the heart of historic downtown Suffolk, this beautifully restored 1890s Queen Anne home is a blend of timeless charm and modern luxury.

From the moment we walked in, I was in love. The architecture stayed true to its original era, and any renovations were clearly done with care to preserve its historic essence. The furniture and decor struck the perfect balance between elegant and cozy. And the bedding? Let’s just say I had one of the best night’s sleep I’ve had in a while.

The grounds were equally impressive. Every inch was perfectly manicured, giving off a European garden vibe. But the showstopper was the massive intertwined magnolia trees. They formed a kind of secret hideaway, complete with a doorway you could walk through, tables and chairs tucked inside, and hanging lights that twinkled at night. It was pure magic.

One of the best parts of The Pinner House is that the first floor houses Café Davina, a charming coffee bar and creperie. There’s ample seating both inside and out, and it’s the perfect spot to spend a slow morning sipping really good coffee and soaking in the peaceful surroundings. Even if you’re not looking for an overnight stay, a visit to Café Davina is worth the trip. It’s a cozy gem nestled in one of the most beautiful settings you’ll find.

The property also includes a quaint little cottage and a separate carriage house suite, both available for rent. Angie and I spent a few hours in the carriage house attending a workshop (more on that in my next blog post—stay tuned!).

While I’ll always cherish traveling with my husband, this quick trip reminded me how special it can be to step away and reconnect with a friend. Between the laughter, conversation, good coffee, and peaceful surroundings, it was the kind of escape that fills your cup. Sometimes, all you need is a change of scenery and a little time to breathe.