about time in ...

Woodbridge

Nestled by the banks of the Deben estuary, the market town of Woodbridge is undoubtedly one of the jewels in Suffolk’s crown. Along the Thoroughfare and pretty streets that lead off it, you will find a wide range of independent boutiques, cafes, restaurants and pubs. With its open spaces, inviting alleyways and urban footpaths criss-crossing its rich history, be sure to put aside a whole day in order to uncover all its gems.

time to explore!

With plenty of green spaces and playgrounds, an independent cinema, leisure centre and a boating lake, Woodbridge is a great day out for all the family, but a trip to this vibrant town wouldn’t be complete without a walk along the river. Whether you choose to start in Melton and take the short walk along the river bank, stopping off for a highly recommended bite to eat at the Deben Cafe Bar on HMS Vale, or starting in town, be sure to take in the Tide Mill, listed as among the first tidemills in the country and one of only a handful in the world still producing flour on a regular basis.

Take a pause at Whisstocks Quay, with its lovely open square, home to pizza restaurant The Woodyard, and The Boathouse, both great places to eat. Pop your head around the door at the Longshed where you can see a replica of the Sutton Hoo royal burial ship under construction, before taking in some history at Woodbridge Museum

Woodbridge is home to Deben Rowing Club and cradled on the banks of the river just alongside it is ‘The Sisters’ sculpture, which celebrates the lives of Molly and Ethel Everson who, along with their brothers Cyril and Bert, once managed Woodbridge boatyard. End your stroll with a refreshing cuppa at The Tea Hut which sits in full view of the model boat pond, where you will often see folk of all ages sailing their vessels.

The world, or should we say, Woodbridge, is your oyster when it comes to eating out!

Whether you’re after fine dining, a quick bite to eat, or something a little different, here are some top recommendations:

The Bull Hotel – sumptuous food with weeklychanging, seasonally inspired menu, served in Georgian surroundings. Lovely bar too.

Spice Bar at The Table – A Woodbridge institution, expect a modern twist on some classic authentic Southeast Asian food. So too is The Galley, run by Ugur Vata, muchloved restauranteur who brings an authentic taste of ‘The Med’ to the town.

1975 Wine Bar – with monthly Single Socials, and regular themed nights, this is the hottest spot in town.

Wokit – The newest kid on the block, visit Wokit if you’re feeling peckish and fancy putting together your own noodle nosh!

If it’s ales you’re after, you’ll be hard pushed to beat The King’s Head or The Anchor, but if tea and cake is more your thing, you are spoilt for choice! There are over a dozen cafes in walking distance of the centre of town.

for a browse!

Woodbridge is home to a wonderful range of independent shops. Here are some of our latest finds.

Stockists on page 80

Taking a turn, or two…

If you wander up Church St, you’ll see Turn Lane on the left where, after a few paces, you’ll find The Friends Meeting House, built in 1678 and now a private residence. The adjoining graveyard is now a designated Quiet Place in which to spend a few minutes in peace. Turning back up Church St, you have the most magnificent view of the ancient plane tree at the gates to the parish church of St. Mary. Finish up on the Market Hill, at its centre, The Shire Hall, built as a single storey building in 1575 by Thomas Seckford.

A Workshop in Hasketon

Try your hand at pottery, mosaics, watercolours and more at EjaRt Creative’s lofty converted barn at Grange Farm, Hasketon, just outside Woodbridge. All details on their website: www.ejartcreative.co.uk

Spotting the birdie

The River Deben provides a great habitat for breeding and migrant birds. The extensive mudflats and salt marsh support 70 species, including cormorants, oystercatchers and curlews and boasts one of the most significant overwintering populations of avocets in the UK as well as a large population of redshanks.

A round of golf

There was a time when you had to be a member of a club before you could drive a ball into the rough, or, if luck were on your side, celebrate your holein-one with a round at the bar. These days, clubs welcome non-members and Woodbridge has three of them on its doorstep: Woodbridge Golf Club, Ufford Park and Seckford Golf Club. If you’re not up for the long walk in the fresh air, book in for a session at Suffolk’s only two-tier driving range at Ufford Park, voted in the Top 10 Driving Ranges in Britain by Today’s Golfer Magazine.