Halesworth Town Guide 2023

Tel: 01986 872882

Email: mail@mgcservices.org

www.halesworthplumbingandheating.com

HEATING & PLUMBING • BOILER SERVICING • SWIMMING POOLS

We can provide you with the following:

HEATING

• Gas Safe Registered for both LPG and Natural Gas

• Gas boilers serviced

• Complete heating systems installed or current heating systems upgraded

• Additional radiators installed or radiators relocated

• Gas leaks detected and repaired

• Landlord Gas Safety Records (CP12s) carried out

• Landlord Legionnaires Disease risk assessment carried out

• Central heating ‘Jetflushing’ carried out

• Fault finding on problematic heating systems

PLUMBING

• Complete/part bathroom suites supplied and installed

• Taps re-washered or replaced

• Dishwashers/washing machines plumbed-in or relocated

• Outside taps installed

• Water leaks detected and repaired

• All types of pipework repaired or replaced - Water Regulations Accredited

SWIMMING POOLS

• Gas Safe Registered for pool heaters

• Pool heaters installed or serviced

• Pool pipework and plant repaired or replaced

We take pride in providing quality work using experienced Craftsmen and are fully insured. For a reliable and courteous service, contact Clive Mitchell.

Over 40

Halesworth is a pretty Suffolk market town with a rich history and plenty to offer both residents and visitors. There’s mention of the town in the Domesday Book when it was known as Healesuurda (meaning ‘homestead’). The town as we know it today is centred around a main Thoroughfare and Market Place with many buildings dating to around the 16th century.

Visitors to Halesworth can’t help but notice the relaxed way of life we enjoy. The town centre offers a unique shopping experience with great choice, selection and customer service that you get from the many independent retailers we are fortunate to have in our town.

The pedestrianised Thoroughfare makes for a social space for friends and families to enjoy all that Halesworth has to offer. Many of the cafés and pubs have tables and chairs outside where you might enjoy a bit of refreshment and take time to watch the world go by before or after hitting the shops.

Head through the colourful subway out of the centre of town and you will

find the park and Millennium Green. At 44 acres, Halesworth has the largest Millennium Green in the country and offers residents and visitors somewhere to enjoy the great outdoors - whether it’s a morning dog walk, a lazy Sunday stroll, or hitting the skate park. The river running through the Green is home to all sorts of wildlife from Water Voles, Otters and Pike to Kingfishers and Barn Owls. You just need keep your eyes peeled!

With a lovely town centre, beautiful park and green space, you have all you need here in our little corner of Suffolk. However, one of the great things about Halesworth is its location. You’re only a short drive from Norwich or Ipswich, or jump on the train and you can be in the bright lights of London in around two hours.

Halesworth has a great community feel and there are lots of events held annually bringing together family and friends to celebrate this special town. This really is one of Suffolk’s gems so whether you live here, are on holiday or just passing through, be sure to make a little time to see what Halesworth has to offer.

Keep an eye out for Kingfishers by the river running through the Millennium Green!

Halesworth Town Council...

Halesworth Town Council is the first tier of local government closest to the electorate.

The Town Council is in a great position to help identify the needs of your community and to deliver projects and initiatives that will help to make your local area a better place to live. For example, in Halesworth, there is land set aside for a community hub, the Town Council will need to plan and deliver this to best fit the needs of all our residents.

Town councils are best placed to identify the needs of the local community and show great imagination in developing ideas to tackle the issues most relevant to their local area.

The Town Council recognised that youth provision in Halesworth is inadequate and have led on setting up YAH-R (Youth Action Halesworth - Rural) to plan better youth facilities. We have been listening to what young people want regarding the renewal of the skate park and have organised events to gather to ideas for this.

Halesworth Town Council is responsible for the Wednesday Market and allotments in three locations in the town. We are developing close links with the town centre businesses and have a marketing project underway to bring more visitors to our well kept secret! We want Halesworth to be able to compete for visitors with surrounding attractions.

We also support local voluntary bodies through a grant system and have initiated cultural and environmental projects in the town. The Council have planted 35 trees in open spaces around the town and supplied benches for residents to better enjoy these spaces.

The Town Council has few powers but does its best to influence decisions taken by the District and County Councils for the benefit of Halesworth and its residents. We are consulted on planning applications in the town and do our best to supply local knowledge to help the planners decide within planning policy the best outcome for the town.

Continued on page 8...

Halesworth Town Council...

Halesworth now has a Neighbourhood Plan and the policies contained within have to be taken into account when planning decisions are made. The town will also benefit from increased Community Infrastructure Levy payments direct to the Town Council that can be used for future infrastructure projects.

Vacancies on the Town Council occur either at elections or throughout the four year term known as casual vacancies. Becoming a Town Councillor means you can be involved first hand in the future of the town as we rise to the challenges we will be facing.

There are opportunities for councillors to lead on a project they are interested in or have experience in. To stand as a councillor (whether via election or cooption), you must meet the following criteria:

• You must be at least 18 years of age.

• AND You must live in the parish of Halesworth.

• OR own property or land in the parish of Halesworth.

• OR work in the parish of Halesworth.

• OR live within three miles (as the crow flies) of the boundary of the parish of Halesworth.

So, if you want to do more for your community, if you want to spend your time productively, and if you can think, listen and act locally - Become a Town Councillor.

Find out more about the Town Council on our website: www.halesworthtowncouncil.org.uk.

The Clerk’s Office is on London Road and is open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9am1pm. You can email any enquiries to: clerk@halesworthtowncouncil.org.uk or phone 01986 874517.

HALESWORTH: Local and independent!

With over 800 years of market heritage, Halesworth town centre is a “must visit” destination for retail therapy, food and drink treats, and other local services.

A historic market town:

Under 10 miles from the East Suffolk coast, Halesworth is a town rooted in a trading heritage. A historic market town, Halesworth was granted market status 800 years ago in 1223 (in exchange for two ladies saddle horses) and the weekly market continues to this day on a Wednesday morning.

The traditional Market Place forms one end of the town centre which then continues along the Thoroughfare to Bridge Street. This is the real economic heart of our town and is home to over 100 independent businesses. Many of these are located in traditional heritage buildings, some dating back to the 16th century, adding to the charm and experience of visiting our town.

Unbelievably, all town traffic used to go along the Thoroughfare, but now that it’s semi-pedestrianised, it’s made our shopping street the main attraction of Halesworth. Lovely products from the shops pour out onto the street with cafés and restaurants providing places to sit outside to watch the Suffolk world go by.

Local & Independent...

Local & independent:

It’s easy to stroll through Halesworth town centre, discovering our many independent businesses, owned by local people. Our Halesworth people have a real passion for what we do and always have customer service at the top of our priorities. You’ll always have a warm welcome and we’ll always try our best to find what you’re looking for, even if that means we might send you to the business next door!

Everything you need:

With solicitors to greengrocers, cafés to opticians, gifts and home accessories to hairdressers, you don’t have to look any further for everything you need in our town centre!

Whether you’re a frequent local shopper or a visitor exploring our town, we think you’ll find lots on offer. Open the doors and walk into each of our independently-owned shops to discover a wide range of things you need and things you would just love to have!

To give you a flavour, Halesworth town centre is home to a wonderful bookshop which hosts signings and events with...

Halesworth... Local & Independent...

...local authors, a well-stocked pet shop offering personal advice and fittings for your favourite four legged friend, a traditional toy shop stocked to the rafters with favourites for kids as well as adults, a home accessories store offering styling advice with a Dutch focus, a well-known local hardware store for all those DIY things you can’t do without, plus clothes, shoes, plants, gifts, jewellery, art, handpainted pottery, stationery, this list goes on!

Foodies welcome:

As local people, we also love to shop and eat locally, supporting local suppliers where we can.

Halesworth is a foodie centre for local produce from a box of eggs to that special handmade birthday cake treat. Our shops, cafés and restaurants offer freshly caught fish from off the Suffolk coast to locally grown strawberries, locally reared Blythburgh pork to delicious locally farm made cheese. We have a butcher, a fishmonger, bakers, greengrocers, delisyour food favourites are all here.

Our town also has a great café culture with plenty of places to add to your favourites list. Many have outdoor seating so that you can enjoy watching the world go by whilst enjoying freshly made cakes and light meals, with a locally roasted coffee on the side.

And if you don’t have time to stop, you can stock up on your favourites for sharing at home or taking on a picnic to the local park or the nearby beaches. Later in the day, there’s plenty of choices for places to relax, have a drink and eat a meal.

And much more:

Our town centre wouldn’t be complete without all of our other independent businesses who have their home here.

When it’s time for a pamper, you really are spoilt for choice. We have talented, creative professionals to give you a massage, a hair restyle, a manicure, podiatry advice, or teeth whitening - all located within the centre of the town.

And if you are looking for professional services, then look no further for an estate agent, solicitor or accountant.

Come visit:

It’s easy to reach our town centre to visit our local and independent businesses. With plenty of car parking within a couple of minutes from the Thoroughfare, you won’t have far to walk.

Halesworth is less than a ten minutes drive from the A12 and easily connects to Ipswich and Lowestoft by direct train, and surrounding towns and villages and Norwich by bus.

While you’re here, why not also take time to visit our town park and Millennium Green, The Cut arts centre and the Halesworth Museum. Or simply stroll through our heritage town to discover more of what makes Halesworth, a “must visit” destination.

To find out more, visit us on Facebook (/HalesworthMarketTown) and Instagram (@halesworthtown).

History of Halesworth...

Halesworth, a brief walk through time...

If you’re looking for a slice of history with a little bit of everything, this is the place to be. Here we take a whirlwind journey through time and explore the fascinating history of this town.

The beginning:

There’s evidence of Roman settlements in the area with the River Blyth providing excellent links to the continent and coast line. Following on from the Romans we saw the Saxon era who again would have made good use of the then much wider river and fertile lands. However, when William the Conqueror invaded in 1066 it was the Normans who took over our land. It is fair to say Halesworth had a varied and diverse start to life.

Humble origins:

Halesworth wasn’t a sleepy hamlet for too long... It slowly grew into a bustling market town. The Domesday Book of 1086 mentioned the town referring to it as ‘Healesuurda’ which translates as ‘homestead’. The book also tells us that Ulf the Priest was then in charge of the parish of Halesworth.

Medieval merchants:

Fast-forward to the Middle Ages, Halesworth continued to grow and thrive. The town’s merchants were busy trading wool and cloth amongst other things. In 1222, King Henry VIII granted Halesworth the right to hold a market, and it’s safe to say the locals soon got to grips with the idea of buying, selling, haggling and trading, and have been doing so for the last 800 years!

Wool, the golden fleece:

The wool trade filled the town’s coffers, and the grand timber-framed buildings that still stand today are a testament to its prosperity. Even though the wool trade isn’t as booming now, Halesworth has retained its historic charm, making it a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.

Aerial view of the River Blyth

Halesworth’s home front: Halesworth played a significant role during World War II, serving as a base for the United States Army Air Force. The friendly skies were anything but peaceful during those days, as Halesworth became a hotbed of activity.

The 56th Fighter Group and 489th Bomb Group were based here and left a lasting impact on the town. The town even played host to Glenn Miller and his band who performed to a packed out hangar at Halesworth Airfield on August 6th, 1944. This was one of seven Suffolk appearances during the summer of 1944.

Want to know more?

Anyone interested in learning more about the history of Halesworth and surrounding villages should make a point of visiting the Halesworth Museum. Located at the train station on Station Road, just a few minutes’ walk from the centre of town, this museum houses fantastic exhibits, archaeology and

geology displays about our fascinating local history. Find more information online: www.halesworthmuseum.org.uk

You might also want to head up to Halesworth Airfield Museum. Leave town driving towards Bungay and turn right on to Sparrowhawk Road (at the Triple Plea roundabout), the museum is along that road on the left. Here you will find an extensive collection of World War II memorabilia, including many items that are specific to the airfield. Further details can be found on the website: www.halesworthairfieldmuseum.co.uk

Fancy a stroll?

Follow the town trail (which is marked by ducks) to take in some of the many notable sites and buildings in Halesworth. You can start at the Angel Hotel and make your way towards London Road before heading up Steeple End, into the Market Place and on from there. The circular route will eventually bring you back to your starting point.

Glenn Miller performed in Halesworth in 1944. ‘Glenn Miller and His Orchestra’ was one of the most popular and successful bands of the 20th century and the big band era. Image credit: Ralf Liebhold / Shutterstock.com

Dog friendly Halesworth...

If you’re a dog owner in Halesworth, or visiting with your four-legged friend, you’re in luck! With beautiful parks, riverside paths, the stunning Suffolk Heritage Coast, and woodland walks, there’s no shortage of places to take your furry friend on an adventure.

As you may have already read in this guide, Halesworth has the largest Millennium Green in the country. There are over 50 acres of land to ramble around with an all weather track making this space accessible and usable all year round. The area is a haven for wildlife so keep an eye out for the diverse mix of flora and fauna you will encounter along the way. Simply loop around as many times as you like, though please be aware there are cattle grazing from May to November, so keep you dog under control or on a lead.

Another great walk from town takes you along the banks of the river Blyth. There is a footpath that leads you from the centre of town, through the Millennium Green, out towards Blyford and Wenhaston before you reach Blythburgh. From here, if you still have plenty of energy, you can continue on to Walberswick.

Of course, from Halesworth, the coast is just a short drive so if you fancy a day at the beach there are plenty to choose from. Head north up the A12 and

turn right at Wrentham to visit Cove Hithe. Once parked, the beach is around a 15 minute walk but the walk is worth it as you will find beautiful white sand and, thanks to the walk, it is usually one of the quieter beaches so there will be plenty of room for you and your dog to run around and splash about.

If you prefer a woodland walk, go south to Dunwich Forest. There are lots of wellsigned trails and tracks of different lengths so there is something for everyone. This is an ideal place to bring a picnic and spend the day exploring. Dunwich Forest is great all year round but if you can make it May to early June, then you might be lucky enough to catch the Rhododendrons in full bloom!

Vets:

Hopefully, you won’t need a vet, however, here are some local ones:

• Eagle Veterinary Group, Norwich Road, Halesworth - 01986 873139

• Wangford Veterinary Clinic, Pound Corner, Wangford - 01502 578999

Guidance for dog walkers:

• Be aware of, and adhere to, restrictions limiting where dogs can go. Particularly if it impacts local wildlife or livestock.

• Keep your dog close to you and under your control at all times.

• Use a lead when needed or requested.

• Prevent your dog from approaching cordoned areas.

• Always bag and bin your dog’s waste.

• Make sure you have fresh drinking water for your dog if you plan to be out for an extended period of time.

Halesworth Volunteers...

We make people’s lives better.

For nearly 40 years, Halesworth Volunteers have provided a range of services and support to help people who are struggling or need a helping hand. Everything we do is powered by the energy and commitment of our amazing volunteers.

In 2022, Halesworth Volunteers were honoured to receive the ‘Queen’s Award for Volunteering’ in recognition of our work supporting vulnerable people in the Waveney Valley.

Our Community Car Service is a vital lifeline: Getting people who can no longer travel independently to their medical and hospital appointments, their social activities and even ensuring they can do their shopping at the Coop.

Our Isolation Buster Programme provides befriending support for people who are lonely or living alone.

Our regular programme of social activities ensures that older people can meet for afternoon tea, soup lunches or

take a little trip out to the local garden centre. We also shop for people who can no longer shop for themselves, walk dogs, tidy gardens and just do the little things that can make such a difference to people’s lives. And if we cannot help, we will know somebody or an organisation that can.

Our Community Larder (run in partnership with St. Mary’s Church) is a safe welcoming space where people can exchange food items, donate food and household staples or just pick up vital food if they’re struggling. Everyone gets a warm welcome at the Larder, come and visit us soon. We’re open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays at St. Mary’s Church Hall.

So if you need a helping hand to get you to your hospital appointment or would like a chance to make some new friends at one of our social lunches, or you’re worried about your mum and dad and think they might need a little bit of help and support, please just give us a call.

Halesworth Volunteers is always here to help and we really do make lives better. Just call us on 01986 875600 or visit our website www.halesworthvolunteers.org to find out more.

A trip to the garden centre!

‘Queens Award for Volunteering’ presentation

The Halesworth Town Sign (located by the side of the Angel Link Road) was made by Mark Goldsworthy of Bungay.

It represents the everyday people of Halesworth and their trades. They’re marching past six railway arches, representing the six railway bridges of Halesworth and are carrying a banner proclaiming the town. The banner is stained blue to represent the Town’s river.

‘Halesworth’ is stated in bold lettering. On the back is the town crest and the artist’s name. Two brackets represent the American Airforcemen who were a familiar sight here during World War II.

Halesworth Town Sign...

Town Map

HALESWORTH HALESWORTH Town Map

Husband & Wife locals Ian & Hollie Bowmer and their friendly team welcome you to their 500 year old traditional public house.

ey continue to provide an extensive menu of homecooked food using locally sourced products including vegetarian, vegan, gluten and dairy-free requirements.

Please ring 01986 781341 to book a table for dining

Groups in HALESWORTH

The Rifle Hall, IP19 8LR

Tuesdays 9:30am, 5:30pm & 7pm

For details, contact Bev on 07912 849995

NEW & RETURNING MEMBERS ALWAYS WELCOME

Probably the best selection of Rollators & Walkers in Suffolk

Top brands stocked including:

TGA & Pride Mobility Scooters

TGA Lightweight lithium battery power chairs

HELPING YOU TO ENJOY YOUR LIFE & INDEPENDENCE!

- Bathing

- Showering

- Toileting

- Relaxing

Kit for:

- Profiling beds

- Riser-recliner chairs

- Eating & drinking aids

- Help to get you out & about

01986 873803

shop@rehability.co.uk • www.rehability.co.uk

For mobility aids for daily living, visit our shop:

7 Bridge Street, Halesworth, IP19 8AB

(Opposite the Library)

Independent Living Centre & Showhome at: Bridge Farm, Chediston, IP19 0AE

(2 miles west of Halesworth)

The Halesworth & District Museum is the starting point for anyone wishing to know how Halesworth and surrounding villages have come to be what they are today. Its collections are a tribute to the generosity and interest of local people. It’s a proud boast that the Museum has been created and managed wholly through the efforts of volunteers.

The Museum’s display areas have expanded in the past year, and they’re packed with interesting exhibits and useful information to excite your curiosity about our fascinating local history. There are awardwinning archaeology and geology displays and regularly changing exhibitions. There’s an interactive model of the town as it was 600 years ago, complete with press-button commentary.

Although not specifically a railway museum, there’s always something of interest on local railway history. Alongside the building are the station’s unique moveable platforms and (if you are not sure how they work) pop into the Museum and, in our railway-themed lobby area, press the button on the working model.

The Museum is committed to the view that it’s been created by the community, for the benefit of the community. Schools and other groups are welcomed by arrangement and there are teacher resource boxes for loan to support National Curriculum studies, as well as reminiscence boxes for loan to care homes or carers, to stimulate the memories of elderly people. A team of history volunteers can talk to local residents about life in the area across the past hundred years. A local study area has been created with an array of resources to help people research local and family history.

A series of talks on local history is staged every year and attracts large audiences. In 2012, the Museum raised funds to acquire a magnificent Bronze Age hoard discovered in Wissett the previous year. In 2016, the Museum was successful in obtaining a major grant to enable it to purchase a new case to house the hoard together with a Bronze Age hoard found in Bramfield in 1839. We

The Halesworth & District Museum...

also house an extensive collection of locally found Roman silver coins and Bronze Age gold coins, with plans to expand the latter in the very near future.

In 2022, we created the Lincolne Letters display, a unique collection of correspondence revealing how life was lived in Halesworth in the 19th century. In the same year, we were presented with two awards from the Association for Suffolk Museums.

There is so much to do at the Museum, as a visitor or a volunteer. More help is always needed. An hour or two a week to act as a steward in the Museum or to help with behind-the-scenes activities is a contribution local people can make to this important asset, while at the same time learning and having fun. Or you can simply express your interest and enthusiasm by joining the Friends of the Museum, who (each spring) attend the popular Preview Event at the beginning of the summer season, receive a newsletter and are invited to other events and occasions.

The Museum’s opening times are:

• Tues & Thurs: 10am-12:30pm

• Wed, Fri & Sat: 10am-4pm

• Sun & Mon: Closed

Please see the website for winter closure dates.

For more information, or to get involved, drop in at the Museum, email: office@halesworthmuseum.org.uk, or visit: www.halesworthmuseum.org.uk

Halesworth offers a perfect retreat for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The town boasts an array of options for those looking for a bit of pampering. From luxurious spas offering indulgent massages and body treatments to holistic centres providing yoga classes, meditation and alternative therapies, there’s something for everyone.

One of the town's greatest assets is its natural beauty. There's no better way to enhance your health and beauty routine than by embracing the great outdoors. Halesworth is surrounded by scenic trails and green spaces making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Taking a leisurely stroll or engaging in outdoor exercises can be a refreshing way to enhance both physical and mental wellbeing.

There are plenty of salons in the town that will be ready with their passion and expertise to help you look and feel great!

Halesworth is a hidden gem for those seeking health and beauty indulgence, the town provides an all-encompassing experience for pampering oneself. Whether you’re just looking for a little pickme-up or are getting ready for dolled up for a big occasion, Halesworth caters for everyone and will leave you looking and feeling fabulous!

Where can you find woodlands old and new, waterways, ponds, heathland, meadows some grazed some cut, a community orchard - all a few minutes walk from the town just through the Town Park? On Halesworth Millennium Green of course! Catch up with history at the engine shed site creatively restored by the Southwold-Halesworth Narrow Gauge Railway Society, look out for water voles along the even older “navigation” where wherries brought goods between Halesworth and Southwold. All managed solely by volunteers, and protected for local people and visitors forever by being a CIO (charitable incorporated organisation).

The Millennium Green was created in the year 2000 from 32 acres of grazing marsh in the flood plains of the River Blyth and the Town River, and its water meadows help to protect the town from flooding. Since 2000, further land has

Millennium Green...

been added to this glorious public open space and the Green now spreads over 50 acres (20 hectares).

A superb all-weather track, Woolnough Way, part of National Cycle Route 1 snakes through north-south and gives smooth access for people on foot as well as for cycles, mobility scooters and push chairs. The Green is rich in wildlife, in geology and history, a perfect place to explore.

Would you like to help, why not join a work party? Bring a drink and a nibble and we’ll supply gloves and tools. We work for approximately two hours with a sociable break in the middle but you can do as little or as much as you have time for. Or help with more strategic matters by becoming a Trustee.

Our website ‘Halesworth Millennium Green’ carries news of past and future events, photos, wildlife records, history and geology or email us directly on: thegreen@halesworth.net

Things to see & do in Halesworth...

Visit The Cut:

Fancy taking in some theatre, comedy, music, cinema, art exhibitions? Then The Cut is for you! Based in a large converted heritage maltings, the beautiful building is the perfect space and venue bringing arts to Halesworth and the local area. The Cut benefits from a bright, spacious café and licensed bar so be sure to make the most of the facilities. www.thecut.org.uk

Take in some art:

Immerse yourself in visual art at Halesworth Gallery. Located in the centre of town at Steeple End, just opposite St. Mary’s Church, the gallery has been a fixture in our town and attract art lovers for many years. www.halesworthgallery.co.uk

Enjoy a slice of history:

If you’d like to learn more about the town, then you’ll enjoy a trip to one of our museums. Just a short walk from The Cut is the Halesworth & District Museum www.halesworthmuseum.org.uk or make your way to Halesworth Airfield Museum and learn about the role Halesworth played during in World War II www.halesworthairfieldmuseum.co.uk.

Have a round:

If Golf is your thing, then you’re well catered for here. Halesworth Golf has two courses of beautifully manicured fairways and greens. Both the 18-hole course and 9-hole course have fantastic views of the surrounding countryside.

Once you’ve completed your round, be sure to save enough time for a spot of light refreshment in the superb clubhouse.

Take a tour:

Heading slightly out of Halesworth, you might like to take nip over to Southwold and take an Adnams Brewery Tour and discover how your favourite local beers and spirits and brewed and distilled. www.adnams.co.uk

Maybe you prefer grape over grain, in that case, get over to Valley Farm Vineyard which is just a few minutes north-west of Halesworth and indulge in one of their tours and tastings. www.valleyfarmvineyards.co.uk

Halesworth Golf

I get around

Youʼll see me at the Co-op, Cutlerʼs Hill, Thoroughfare Car Park, and lots of other places in Halesworth and Holton - Maybe even where you live. Look out for the Number 511.

I can come right to your door

If you canʼt get to one of my bus stops and youʼre a short way off our route, I can pick you up at your home and drop you back afterwards (phone ahead to let me know).

You can rely on my drivers and bus buddies

If you want, theyʼll give you a hand getting on board, and getting off again. In the mornings, my bus buddies can carry those heavy shopping bags to your doorstep.

I’m here for everyone

People of all ages and all abilities are welcome to travel with me. You can find my timetable in the library, volunteer centre and online or we can post one to you.

I enjoy days out

Daveʼs Days Out (to be specific). Dave takes me on lots of trips, e.g. shopping in Lowestoft, sometimes to the seaside. Weʼre always interested to hear your ideas of great places to visit (maximum of 16 passengers, advance booking essential).

My drivers and bus buddies are all volunteers

Iʼm run entirely by a non-profit-making charity. I rely on bus fares, private hire by community groups, local sponsorship and my volunteer crews to keep going. Perhaps you, or someone you know, might want to join the happy team?

I’m up for community hire

Local community groups can hire me (along with one of my drivers of course) to take them on outings anywhere in the UK.

I need a li le help from my friends

Please remember the Hoppa is a charity and is only able to survive due to the generosity of its supporters. If you would like to help us with any sort of gift, such as one-off donation, or perhaps a legacy, please contact the office and we would be very pleased to speak to you. If requested, anonymity will always be totally respected.

Hello, I’m the Halesworth Hoppa! A few things you might not know about me...

Whether you live locally or are in Halesworth on holiday, you’ll find you are spoilt for choice for places to go and things to do in the area. Venture beyond Halesworth and you will find that our corner or Suffolk has plenty to offer, here are a few of our suggestions for a day out.

Framlingham:

Around 15 miles south-west of Halesworth, you’ll find the pretty market town of Framlingham. These days, it’s perhaps best known as the hometown of Ed Sheeran but take a trip here and you’ll discover a gorgeous town with lots of shops, cafés, pubs and culture. Like much of Suffolk, Framlingham is the ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of every-day life. The European café culture of tables and chairs on pavements around a central market place or throughfare, is perhaps more noticeable here than any of our other towns. Of course, you can’t visit Framlingham without going to the 12th century castle, it is a beautiful and unmissable photo opportunity.

Southwold:

Head in a straight line to the coast and you’ll reach Southwold in a little over 15 minutes. This really is a lovely town to explore, with a bustling high street and lots of great little lanes leading to quiet greens, more shops, the beach or a fabulous view. It is fair to say there is something for everyone here from fashionistas to foodies so why not take a trip out and have a wander around one of Suffolk’s gems.

Aldeburgh:

A large high street with fabulous shopping and world- famous fish & chips awaits you in Aldeburgh. Enjoy an evening meal, cocktail or pint of your favourite local ale in one of the many seafront hotels, pubs and eateries. The pebble beach is home to the famous scallop sculpture which is another essential photo opportunity when in Suffolk. Home to Benjamin Britten, Aldeburgh also boasts a terrific arts scene so is not to be missed.

Woodbridge:

Situated on the banks of the river Deben, Woodbridge has a rich maritime history. These days the river is primarily a place for leisure activities so if you enjoy sailing this is the town for you. Woodbridge is just 30 minutes down the A12 from Halesworth and has lots of convenient town centre parking. A great mix of high street names and independent retailers

Venture beyond Halesworth...

makes for an excellent shopping experience. If you need a break from shopping, there are lots of cafés, pubs and restaurants that make the ideal place to recharge your batteries. Of course, there is plenty of history and culture on offer here too.

Beccles:

Just 20 minutes north of Halesworth is Beccles. The largest of the towns mentioned here, Beccles is known as the gateway to the Norfolk Broads. A busy town centre has all that you would expect to find. Good shopping and plenty of places to eat and drink. Though the coast is just a short drive, those who enjoy swimming outside will head to the Lido (open in the summer months). If you prefer life on the river make your way to a local boatyard to hire a dayboat or canoe and get out an explore.

The picturesque seaside town of Southwold is just a 15-minute drive from Halesworth.

Sport in Halesworth...

Badminton:

Halesworth Badminton Club

Bungay Sports Centre, Bungay High School 01986 872002

Holton & Blyford Badminton Club

Holton Village Hall, Holton 01986 872467

Bowls:

Halesworth Angel Bowls Club

Dairy Hill, Halesworth 01986 874762

Sole Bay Bowls Club

50 Halesworth Road, Reydon, Southwold 01502 722683

Wenhaston Bowls Club

Playing Fields, The Street, Wenhaston 07824 871551

Cricket: Halesworth Pumas Cricket Club halesworthpumascc@hotmail.co.uk.

Dance: Suffolk All Stars 07985 521888

www.suffolkallstars.co.uk

admin@suffolkallstars.co.uk

Football:

Halesworth Town Football Club

Dairy Hill, Halesworth halesworthtownfc@hotmail.com

Golf: Halesworth Golf Club

Bramfield Road, Halesworth 01986 875567

www.halesworthgolf.co.uk

Kuk Sool Won of Lowestoft & Halesworth

Dairy Hill, Halesworth 01986 875707

www.kuksoolwonlowestoft.co.uk

Rugby: Southwold Rugby Football Club York Road, The Common, Southwold www.southwoldrugby.club info@southwoldrfc.co.uk

Snooker & Pool & Darts

Chinny’s Sports Bar

27 Norwich Road, Halesworth 01986 872651

www.chinnyssportsbar.co.uk

Swimming:

Halesworth Dolphins Swimming Club

Waveney Valley Leisure Centre, Bedingfield Road, Bungay halesworthdolphins@gmail.com

Tennis: Halesworth Tennis Club

Dairy Hill, Halesworth www.halesworthtennisclub.co.uk

Halesworth Library...

You’ll receive a very warm welcome whenever you visit Halesworth Library. Alongside our traditional book services, the library offers a wide range of services and activities for all ages. There’s a quiet space for study and home-working with free Wi-Fi and hot drinks available on request. Free computer access is available and we offer printing and photocopying services at a small charge. When the sun shines, our garden is a warm and secluded space for all to enjoy.

Working alongside the Friends of Halesworth Library, we offer a wide range of regular activities:

Wordplay: Sessions for babies, toddlers, parents, and carers on Tuesday mornings from 10am-11:30am. Young and old can make new friends and enjoy music and games together.

Family Fun: Children’s activities on Saturdays from 10am-4pm and Family Fun Time on Sundays from 11am-12:30pm. All welcome to drop in for board games, craft activities and Lego. During school holidays, we offer exciting activities for children of all ages. Further details will be available at the library.

Knit & Natter, Craft & Chatter: Looking to improve your knitting and crafting? A friendly and inclusive group for all who enjoy making and socialising. Meeting upstairs at the library every first and third Tuesday afternoon from 2pm-4pm.

Sociable Sundays: Meet new people and enjoy good conversation over a cuppa and cake in the library. Organised by the Friends of Halesworth Library on alternate Sundays from 10:30am-12:30pm.

Time Out: Wednesday mornings, 10am-11:30am. A good place to meet new people. Join us for crafts, chat, and free refreshments.

Citizens Advice East Suffolk: Free dropin advice and support sessions on the first and third Tuesday mornings in the library office from 10am-12pm.

East Suffolk Council: Digital advice, Tuesdays 10am-4pm. Help with online Council services, energy bills, benefit applications etc.

Barclays Bank: Weekly drop-in sessions, 9:30am-4:30pm, every Wednesday. Help with money management, finances, business support and home loans.

Board Games Café: Last Monday of the month from 2pm-4pm. For all ages and abilities! Make new friends, have fun and enjoy tea and cake in the welcoming space of the library. Feel free to bring your own board game along!

One-to-one IT Help: Want to learn more about technology or how to do more digitally? Tuition is £15/hr. All proceeds are donated to library funds.

For further details on our services and activities, pop into the library: Bridge Street, Halesworth, IP19 8AD, call 01986 875095 or visit our website.

To learn more about the Friends and information about how to join, contact the library or email:

friendsofhalesworthlibrary@gmail.com

We look forward to seeing you!

Library opening times:

• Mon: 9am-1pm

• Tues, Wed, Fri & Sat: 9am-5pm

• Thurs: Closed

• Sun: 10am-3pm

Local Information &

Contacts...

Halesworth Town Council: Waveney Local Office, London Road, Halesworth 01986 874517

www.halesworthtowncouncil.org.uk clerk@halesworththowncouncil.org.uk

Member of Parliament: Therese Coffey

therese.coffey.mp@parliament.uk

East Suffolk Council: 01502 827133

www.eastsuffolk.gov.uk

Halesworth Police Station: Norwich Road, Halesworth 01473 613500

HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE

Doctors’ Surgery: Cutlers Hill, Bungay Road, Halesworth 01986 874618

For out of hours/emergencies, dial 111 www.cutlershillsurgery.co.uk

Pharmacies:

Boots: 26 Market Place, Halesworth 01986 834900

Cutlers Hill: Bungay Road, Halesworth 01986 835877

www.cutlershillsurgery.co.uk

Dentists:

Hooker House Dental Practice: Quay Street, Halesworth 01986 872113 - www.suffolkteeth.co.uk

Dynamic Dental Studio: The Old Creamery, Angel Link, Halesworth 01986 873001

www.dynamic-dental.co.uk

Optician:

Cecil Amey: 9-10 Bridge Street, Halesworth 01986 872122

www.cecilameyopticians.co.uk

R H Jeffery & Associates: 4-5 Rectory Street, Halesworth 01986 872116

The Pear Tree Centre: Bungay Road, Halesworth 01986 899655

www.peartreefund.org

info@peartreefund.org

Halesworth Volunteers: Waveney Local Office, London Road, Halesworth 01986 875600

www.halesworthvolunteers.org

info@halesworthvolunteers.org

Halesworth Dementia Carers’ Fund: info@halesworthdementia.co.uk

www.halesworthdementia.co.uk

Blyth Valley Parkinson’s Support Group: Margaret Bloomfield - 01502 478502

Gail Attfield - 01986 872283

Beech House Residential Home: Beech Close, Halesworth - 01986 872197

Highfield House Care Home: London Road, Halesworth 01986 872125

www.castlemeadowcare.co.uk/ highfield-house

Vets:

Eagle Veterinary Group: Norwich Road, Halesworth 01986 873139

www.eagleveterinarygroup.co.uk

EDUCATION

Edgar Sewter Primary School: Norwich Road, Halesworth 01986 873194

www.edgarsewterprimary.co.uk

Edgar Sewter Playschool & Out of School Club: Norwich Road, Halesworth 07796 044277

Bramfield C of E Primary School Bridge Street, Bramfield, Halesworth 01986 784205

Holton St. Peter Primary School: Bungay Road, Holton, Halesworth 01986 872297

www.holtonstpeterschool.co.uk

Ilketshall St. Lawrence Primary School: Hogg Lane, Ilketshall St. Lawrence, Beccles 01986 781315

www.ilketshallstlawrenceprimary.co.uk

Bramfield Stepping Stones Pre-School: Pitmans Grove, Bramfield, Halesworth 01986 784586

www.bramfieldpreschool.co.uk

Wenhaston Primary School: Hall Road, Wenhaston, Halesworth 01502 478328

www.wenhastonprimary.co.uk

Bungay High School: Queens Road, Bungay 01986 892140

www.bungayhigh.co.uk

Sir John Leman High School: Ringsfield Road, Beccles 01502 713223

www.sirjohnleman.co.uk

RELIGION

Blyth Valley Team Ministry (Church of England): St. Mary’s Church, Steeple End, Halesworth 01986 875941

www.blythvalleychurches.org.uk

Halesworth & Bramfield United Reformed Church: 16 Quay Street, Halesworth 01986 873761

www.halesworthandbramfieldurc.co.uk

Halesworth Community Church: School Farm, Church Road, Cratfield, Halesworth

www.halesworthcommunitychurch.org

St. Edmund King & Martyr Roman Catholic Church: Church Farm Lane, Halesworth 01502 723207