Suffolk Guide 2016/17

SUFFOLK TOURISM GUIDE 2016/17

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SUFFOLK GUIDE 2016

WELCOME

BURY ST EDMUNDS page 7

WOODBRIDGE page 29

Please be aware that information and contact details may have changed since publication in March 2016.

For more information or to advertise in the next edition, please contact one of the sales team: Darren Marshall (07826 628680); Stewart Hedges (07595 894557); Jim Leishman (01954 267635).

Editor: Emma Kemsley emma@eastlife.co.uk The Suffolk Guide 2016 is published by Thompson Media Partners Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in part or in whole, without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. All times, prices, information and dates were correct at the time of going to press but readers are advised to ring and check before setting out.

Printed by Buxton Press.

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uffolk is an amazing county full of fun things to do. If you’re planning a trip, our guide is packed with ideas, attractions and essential information, which can be used to make the most of your visit.

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PLACES TO VISIT

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ATTRACTIONS

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SHOPPING & ENTERTAINMENT

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ARTS & CRAFTS

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FOOD & DRINK

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EVENTS

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WEDDING VENUES

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PLACES TO STAY

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e r e m s n i M It’s naturally fun for everyone!

Explore our coastal trails, woodland dens, Wild Zone play area, Nature Discovery Centre and shell-speckled beach.

Join our wildlife team for family-friendly fun or make your own adventure with the help of our many self-guided activities from bug hunts to nature trails. With our friendly café to relax in and a quality gift shop too, there’s something for everyone.

Start exploring

rspb.org.uk/discoverminsmere /RSPBSuffolk

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RSPB Minsmere nature reserve, Suffolk coast, IP17 3BY

Nick Cunard (rspb-images.com). The RSPB is a registered charity in England & Wales 207076, in Scotland SC037654 851-1392-15-16

PLACES TO VISIT

Image credit: TA Hotel Collection

Aldeburgh

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ldeburgh is a striking town found on the unspoiled East Suffolk Coast. It is blessed with breathtaking scenery, both seawards and following the River Alde inland.

Once an important Tudor port and shipbuilding area, Aldeburgh had to wait until the 19th century when the fashion for the beach and craze for sea air brought back visitors in quantity, establishing it as a popular resort. It is now characterised by its lively beachside atmosphere and thriving musical influence, once described as ‘a place of energy and inspiration for music and the arts’.

The town’s most famous inhabitant was the composer Benjamin Britten and there are many reminders of his life about the town.

Britten established the classical Aldeburgh music festival in 1948, placing Aldeburgh firmly on the musical map.

Taking place at nearby Snape Maltings for two weeks every June, the festival kicks off the town’s summer season of events

which also includes Jill Freud’s Aldeburgh Summer Theatre in July and August, and the Carnival and Regatta in August.

Popular with weekend seadogs, Aldeburgh has an active yacht club catering for both the self-assured and the less buoyant sailors visiting the town.

For those less inclined to take to the high seas the town boasts two popular golf courses, all-weather tennis courts, and of course a historical legacy unlikely to go unnoticed, such as 400-year old Moot Hall (now home to Aldeburgh’s museum), a Norman Church and a Martello tower.

The high street has craft, food and antiques shops, reflecting local passions, as well as a myriad of excellent pubs and restaurants, not to mention Aldeburgh’s famous fish and chip shop - just be prepared to queue!

With a range of accommodation to suit all requirements ranging from cottages to rent to family run B&Bs, Aldeburgh is undoubtedly not to be missed!

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BUNGAY

BECCLES

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The town is dominated by the detached 16th-century bell tower next to St Michael’s Church, while a walk through the narrow streets of Beccles (the result of fires in the 16th and 17th centuries which paved the way for the towns many Georgian houses) offers a chance to peruse an eclectic mix of boutiques and antique shops, with plenty to tempt the palates of visitors.

Worth a look are the unused St Mary’s Church and the ruins of Bigod’s Castle, built in 1170, details of which can be found at the castle visitor centre on Cross Street. Taking place every July and focused around the Castle is the Bungay Festival.

he market town of Beccles lies in North West Suffolk on the banks of the Waveney River, on the Norfolk-Suffolk border. Once a thriving Saxon river port, Beccles is now a flourishing boating centre.

Its attractive riverfront and quay make it a popular stop for passing pleasure crafts.

Twyford’s Café in Exchange Square serves a fine tea, for dining there’s Bear & Bells in The Old Market and The Swan House, a restaurant and boutique hotel near the bell tower is highly recommended. Among them are quality food shops, including Bailey’s Delicatessen on Hungate, which also has an upstairs bistro.

Like Aldeburgh in the summer, Beccles also boasts an array of festivities, with an annual carnival and regatta, with live music, a parade, fun fair and fireworks. Most engaging of the annual get-togethers is the fiercely contested charity Rubber Duck Race.

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he River Waveney loops around another market town situated on the SuffolkNorfolk border, the town of Bungay. The streets are full of historic charm and offer several independent shops, restaurants, cafes and bars. With its weekly markets and an abundance of outdoor pursuits in the area including walking, cycling, fishing and canoeing, there is plenty to keep even the most energetic of visitors busy.

For a bite to eat there’s the well-loved Buttercross Tearooms and Tea Gardens, lunch at The Castle Inn on Earsham Street and at the award-winning Earsham Street Café & Delicatessen.

Enjoy a scenic walk along the riverside pathway of the Waveney or hire a rowing boat to take advantage of unspoiled views of the heathland and golf course of Outney Common.

Image credits: Visit Suffolk - www.visitsuffolk.com

PLACES TO VISIT

Image credit: www.visitsuffolk.com

Bury St Edmunds

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ew places in England can match the beauty, character and history of Bury St Edmunds. Rich in legend and folklore, the town has been admired down the years by visitors and authors from Daniel Defoe to Charles Dickens.

The town grew up around the powerful Abbey of St Edmund in early medieval times. For five centuries it was visited by pilgrims from all over the world, coming to worship at the shrine of St Edmund - the martyred King of East Anglia. St Edmund was the patron saint of England until the dragon-slaying George took up the title in more militant times.

Evidence of St Edmundsbury’s past and present is all around. Town and village streets, magnificent parish churches, and unspoiled landscapes throw light on an England that elsewhere has long been lost.

Take the Abbey Trail through the town and visit the old Abbey Ruins; the remains of the great Benedictine Abbey, destroyed in the dissolution of 1539.

It’s a wonderful town to visit, with almost 1,000 preserved buildings and a network of streets that still follow the grid pattern devised by the abbots in the 11th century.

The town has excellent leisure and shopping facilities and is at its busiest on Wednesdays and Saturdays when people

flock to the Buttermarket and Cornhill to visit one of the best provision markets in the East of England.

The town is a shopper’s delight, where every sort of store from the large high street names to family-run businesses and fascinating small gift shops sit comfortably side-by-side.

Art lovers and creative types should pay a visit to Smith Row. Located in an elegant designed building, once the town’s Market Cross theatre, the gallery houses local art, jewellery and ceramics and has changing exhibitions and events throughout the year.

The Apex is the town’s hub for entertainment. It hosts events, music, comedy shows and more throughout the year.

The Abbey Gardens are well known for its stunning floral displays. St Edmundsbury Cathedral was mostly built in the 16th century and has been a cathedral since 1914 but in recent years has been completed with the addition of a new Gothic style lantern tower.

Other buildings to admire include the Victorian Corn Exchange; Cupola House, where Daniel Defoe once stayed; the Angel Hotel, where Charles Dickens and his creation Mr Pickwick stayed; and The Nutshell, owned by Greene King and declared the smallest pub in the country.

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Constable Country

C Cavendish

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avendish is the perfect ‘picture postcard’ English village and arguably one of the prettiest villages in Suffolk. Situated in the Stour Valley, Cavendish is famed for its 14th/15th century church, a number of thatched cottages, and the Sue Ryder Foundation Museum, which tells the life story of Sue Ryder and the history of the foundation.

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delightful little wool town on the River Stour, it has a captivating history, offering a wide range of shops, antique outlets and excellent local cafes and pubs. Visit the remains of a 13th century Augustinian Priory and the quaint Ancient House Museum. The open space of Clare Castle Country Park is a wonderful place to relax as is the picturesque nearby River Stour.

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onstable Country is located on the Suffolk and Essex border, on the banks of the River Stour. This enchanting part of England was the birthplace of renowned artist John Constable and the subject matter of many of his most famous paintings.

Constable once said: “I associate my careless boyhood with all that lies on the banks of the Stour... those scenes made me a painter”, and indeed one of the best ways to appreciate the countryside that John Constable knew and loved is to walk around the picturesque Stour Valley.

By following in the footsteps of Constable, visitors can experience first hand the setting for some of Constable’s most famous paintings, such as ‘The Hay Wain’, ‘The Mill Stream’, ‘Boat-building near Flatford’ and ‘The White Horse’. The Bridge Cottage is now home to a small exhibition on Constable, a tearoom and shop.

The little riverside hamlet of Flatford is owned by the National Trust, which between March and October organise guided Constable tours around the village, lasting approximately one hour. You can also visit the village of East Bergholt, Constable’s birthplace, and from where a young Constable used to walk across the riverside meadows to Dedham every day on his way to school.

Close by is the historic market town of Hadleigh, the delightful Shotley Peninsula, and some wonderful villages along the Stour Valley, which you can follow all the way to Haverhill. Known the world over for its atmospheric skies and captivating natural beauty, this is an inspirational place to spend a holiday.

PLACES TO VISIT

DEBENHAM DEBENHAM

DUNWICH

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nce the capital of East Anglia, it’s hard to believe that the sleepy village of Dunwich was once a bustling port city with a population of 4,000. It might have been still if the sea hadn’t eaten away at it, leading to its almost complete abandonment by the 19th century, with its population dwindling to a mere 237.

Nonetheless there are fabulous reminders of its heyday, including the ruins of a Franciscan priory, while the natural splendour of Dunwich Heath is still intact.

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former court of East Anglian Kings, this attractive large village is set near the source of the River Deben. Once a thriving wool centre, the streets are lined with 14 -17th century timber-framed merchants’ houses. ‘Blood Field’ recalls a great battle which took place against the Danes.

Debenham is also home to the world famous Carters Teapot Pottery and Ceramic Cafe. Visitors can watch the teapots being made, browse around the Pottery Shop and enjoy light refreshments (homemade cakes and scones) in the Pottery’s small conservatory/tea room.

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PLACES TO VISIT

FELIXSTOWE

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elixstowe, bordered on the north by the River Deben and on the south by the River Orwell, is a well-loved resort known for its quality sand and shingle beach, long promenade, perfectly kept seafront gardens and seaside attractions.

Felixstowe became a fashionable seaside resort in the 1880s, and has retained many of its attractive Victorian and Edwardian houses and hotels. The seafront is over four miles long, with a wide promenade that stretches almost the entire length of the beach from Languard Point to Felixstowe Ferry.

The front has all the attractions of a traditional seaside holiday resort, with old-fashioned beach huts, fish and chip shops, a funfair, amusement arcade, miniature golf, bowling green, cafés and restaurants, as well as the facilities of the leisure centre. Alternatively, you could enjoy a retro night at the movies at the 1930s Palace Cinema.

Felixstowe’s summer season of events includes a French Market, Historic Vehicle Rally, tennis tournament, Carnival and Fair and Art on the Prom, which this year takes place on Sunday 4 September.

Felixstowe is home to the UK’s largest container port and Europe’s busiest. The viewing area at Landguard on the southern edge of the town offers great views of container and passenger ships from Felixstowe and Harwich harbours. Next to the view point is the Felixstowe Museum, full of artifacts from Roman to recent times, and Landguard Fort, a multi-period military building dating back to the 16th century.

This year the museum will commemorate World War I from a local perspective and you will find new displays in the Felgate Room.

At the mouth of the River Orwell are the Landguard Bird Observatory and the Landguard Peninsular Nature Reserve, a significant site for shore and migrant birds, and rare shingle flowers.

North of the town centre is the fishing village of Old Felixstowe and at the mouth of the River Deben, the hamlet of Felixstowe Ferry with its gallery, golf course, cottages, boat yard and riverside inns. Here you can explore coastal paths, see the Martello Towers, pick up fresh fish, enjoy excellent fish and chips at the Ferry Café and catch the small ferry boat across the estuary to Bawdsey.

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PLACES TO VISIT

Image credit: English Heritage

FRAMLINGHAM

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ramlingham, known locally as ‘Fram’, sits in the unspoilt countryside of East Suffolk’s coastal district. The pretty market town has a conservation area and many of the town’s buildings date from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Framlingham’s trail is a good way to explore the town’s history and interesting buildings.

The 12th-century Framlingham Castle, owned by the English Heritage, was the seat of the Earls and Dukes of Norfolk. Mary Tudor lived in the castle in 1553 and it was here that she heard she had become Queen of England. Open daily for much of the year (March - November, weekends only) visitors can walk around the battlements and along the wall to take in good views of the countryside and the Mere. Concerts and re-enactments take place in the grounds between March and September.

The Suffolk Wildlife Trust manages the Mere, which runs alongside Framlingham Castle. Framlingham town centre is best known for its antique shops, and is a great place to search for a special find. A twiceweekly market takes place on Market Hill every Tuesday and Saturday.

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HADLEIGH

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adleigh, in the south of Suffolk close to the border of Essex, offers a wonderful mix of the old and new, and is known as much for its collection of interesting shops, pubs and restaurants as it is for its fine architecture.

Hadleigh is one of Britain’s finest ancient market towns, with a rich architectural history that has its origins in Saxon times.

Hadleigh’s High Street is almost a mile long and runs parallel with the river, and of the 137 properties that line the street 90 percent are listed buildings.

HALESWORTH

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alesworth is a small market town primarily centred around a pedestrianised shopping street known as The Thoroughfare.

The Cut, a centre for arts in the community, offers a whole range of arts and entertainment and is host to the Halesworth Arts Festival in October. The Town Park hosts Gig in the Park every August, a showcase of local, national, and international musical talent. Market day is every Wednesday.

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PLACES TO VISIT

IPSWICH Anyone who is unfamiliar with the fascinating county town is in for a pleasant surprise.

Once a solid centre of maritime commerce and activity, the Ipswich ‘Docks’ has been transformed into the Ipswich ‘Waterfront’.

Much of the rich fabric of the past remains intact with sensitive renovations of several heritage dockland buildings including the delectable boutique style Salthouse Harbour Hotel and the imposing Old Custom’s House.

HAVERHILL

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averhill is a market town that dates back to Saxon times. Whilst most of its historical buildings were lost to the great fire on 14 June 1667, it does however retain one notable Tudor house (reportedly given to Anne of Cleves as part of her divorce from Henry VIII, and thus titled Anne of Cleves House) and many interesting Victorian buildings.

Haverhill is predominantly a modern and young town, with a small centre with a number of shops, including a retail quarter, and a leisure complex with a number of restaurants and a Cineworld.

The town has a refurbished leisure centre with a state-of-the-art gym and swimming pool, and an Arts Centre that hosts a range of entertainments.

Haverhill also offers wonderful green spaces; the large recreation ground in the heart of the town is popular with all ages while there’s also the award-wining East Town Park.

Meanwhile, a new wave of vibrant cafes, cosmopolitan restaurants, interesting shops and modern apartment blocks has washed in with the tide. Add this to the everchanging skyline; the vista of visiting large sailing boats, Royal Navy ships, yachts and powerboats, it’s easy to see why Ipswich has become one of the most sought after destinations in the East.

Ten minutes walk away is the town centre, which offers rich pickings in terms of its museums, galleries, theatres, parklands and high street shops. There’s also a great open-air market on the Cornhill on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, located right outside the refurbished Town Hall Galleries, which is well worth a visit.

Christchurch Mansion, a fine Tudor house set in its own beautiful park in the heart of the town, boasts the most important collection outside of London of works by Constable and Gainsborough. International pop acts, mainstream, fringe theatre and an unrivalled arts festival can all be found at venues such as The Regent Theatre, the Corn Exchange and the New Wolsey Theatre.

Of course, retail therapy is a must when in town. St Nicholas Street is ‘boutique paradise’, and there’s a thriving High Street and the Sailmakers Shopping Centre.

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PLACES TO VISIT

LAVENHAM

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avenham is a joy to explore at any time of the year and looks as beautiful in the evening as it does during the day. The village has a proud history and the many magnificent buildings that remain are a testimony to the town having been the fourteenth wealthiest in England.

It ranks amongst the most beautiful of villages; set in lush green countryside it makes the ideal weekend getaway. The appearance of the town has changed little over the years, the buildings are fascinating, some are huge and imposing, others are tiny and crooked. The townspeople have even removed the telegraph poles and buried the wires underground to preserve the village’s Tudor appearance.

Lavenham has been described as ‘the finest medieval town in England’ and no fewer than 300 of its buildings are listed as being of architectural or historical interest. One of these is the Church of St Peter and St Paul, which is among the finest in East Anglia, a magnificent church with a spire of 141 feet.

The local Lavenham Sinfonia gives regular concerts here on Sundays. Other buildings of interest that are open to the public include The Guildhall of Corpus Christi, owned by the National Trust. This is a 16thcentury timber framed building overlooking the market place and houses a museum offering insights into local life.

Little Hall is a lovely example of a 15thcentury hall house with a crown-post roof.

Much recommended is a walk along the disused railway line, followed by a wander through the gift and antique shops, then a spot to eat in one of the many fabulous tea rooms, pubs and fine-dining restaurants scattered around the town. The Angel, believed to be Lavenham’s oldest inn is great for a bite to eat and the renowned Swan is perfect for afternoon tea.

LONG MELFORD

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ong Melford is one of Suffolk’s most attractive villages. It has a long High Street - two and a half miles to be exact; the longest in England - populated by charming independent shops, vibrant art galleries, antique centres, cafes, restaurants, and, of course, typical Suffolk Inns.

This, combined with beautiful architecture and amazing countryside, makes Long Melford a desirable stop for any visitor to Suffolk.

There are plenty of interesting sights, including Holy Trinity Church, a wool church dating from the 15th century. It contains several noteworthy memorials and brasses, and just outside is the brick hospital, founded in 1573 as an almshouse for twelve poor men and two poor women. There are also two Tudor mansions in close proximity. Kentwell Hall is a romantic, completely moated, mellow redbrick mansion in a tranquil parkland setting. There are lots of events going on at the Hall, not least their famous Tudor re-creations, and you can have a guided tour of the house.

Melford Hall is a large Elizabethan house run by the National Trust, built of red brick around a quadrangle and ornamented with mitretopped turrets. Spend the afternoon strolling around the many art galleries, which Long Melford has become known for.

Long Melford is a true Suffolk gem. It has lots to offer the visitor, from historic buildings to contemporary fashions, and the food available throughout the village - from the butcher to the restaurants and pubs - will keep you sustained throughout your stay.

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PLACES TO VISIT

LOWESTOFT

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ocated on the most easterly point of the British coast, Lowestoft provides an ideal holiday location for all ages. Lowestoft offers a mix of lively beaches, pleasant seaside walks and quality family attractions all set in a traditional seaside town.

This once flourishing fishing port is now renowned for the quality of its golden sandy beaches, which are considered to be some of the very best in Europe. The Victorian gardens provide the perfect surrounds to one of the east coasts highlights.

The town centre and seafront areas have seen some recent changes to make them more accessible to visitors. The improvements included the introduction of the Princess Royal Fountains, consisting of 74 individual water jets that provide the perfect attraction for children throughout theday and a visual spectacle in the evenings.

Lowestoft also offers a great shopping experience. The main town centre provides all the high street names, Kirkley offers a choice of independent stores whilst the High Street provides an opportunity to shop in one of the most interesting and historical parts of the town.

Those wishing to delve into Lowestoft’s rich maritime history will be able to explore Heritage Quay and the Maritime Museum.

There is also the opportunity to buy some local fish from one of the merchants or from the local smoke house.

Heading away from the beach, the town is surrounded by a wide choice of attractions, ranging from museums, wildlife parks, piers and other facilities that will keep all visitors of all ages entertained.

The Marina Theatre in the town provides a number of high quality acts throughout the year. Those wishing to be a little more active may decide to follow the coastal walk, either on foot or on horseback, and for the more adventurous kite boarding is also available. eastlife.co.uk

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PLACES TO VISIT

NEWMARKET

MILDENHALL

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ildenhall is an attractive medieval market town surrounded by the River Lark. The town centres on the Market Place with its distinctive 16th century hexagonal Market Cross - used for hanging criminals years ago - and the Town Pump. The parish pump still stands in the market place, as a reminder that piped water was not available until the 1940s.

A market is held here every Friday and was established by Royal Charter in 1412. During the Second World War, Mildenhall was an important bomber base and since 1950 has been home to the United States Air Force, fast becoming one of the most important American installations in this country. St Mary’s Church is one of the finest in Suffolk and the town has a good number of restaurants, shops and other amenities. Mildenhall Stadium hosts greyhound, stock car and speedway racing.

NEEDHAM MARKET

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eedham Market is a small historic town set in the Gipping Valley. Once a thriving wool town, the onset of the plague resulted in the town being ‘chained’ off from the outside world between 1663-65 to isolate it and contain the disease. Despite the plan succeeding, the town still lost two-thirds of its population and did not recover for some two hundred years until the arrival of the railway.

The town has two road names linked to the plague: Chainhouse Road, named after the chains that ran across the East end of the town, and The Causeway, a modern variation of ‘the corpseway’, so called because of the route that plague victims were transported out of town.

The town boasts many unusual, independentand specialist shops, and fine Georgian and Tudor architecture.

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hether you’re a devoted horseracing fan or just a lover of beautiful English towns, Newmarket is sure to appeal.

It has long been considered the birthplace of thoroughbred horseracing since successive Royal Family members came to appreciate the flat land as an ideal location for galloping their horses.

Racing’s early administrative body, The Jockey Club, created its home here. If this is your particular fascination, you’ll be pleased to find the National Stud here, the National Horseracing Museum, Tattersalls Sale Ring, and also the impressive Newmarket Racecourses themselves, which welcomes big-names in music at its summer concerts, ‘Newmarket Nights’.

There are other places of interest for the curious visitor too. Newmarket boasts impressive features such as the grand Clock Tower on the High Street, the King Edward VII Memorial Gardens, the War Memorial Gardens and the elegant Cleveland House in Old Station Road, built in the 1820s by Lord Darlington for his jockey.

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ORFORD

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teeped in history, Orford is an attractive town dominated by its impressive castle, built in the 12th century by Henry VII for coastal defence.

The town has plenty to offer those passing through, with excellent walks and cycle rides for the more outdoorsy, and plenty of good restaurants, pubs and tearooms for those simply looking to relax and soak up the surrounding history.

Brick and timber buildings line the streets to the little quayside, where there are boat trips to Orford Ness - Europe’s largest vegetated shingle spit.

The Reserve contains a variety of habitats including shingle, saltmarsh, mudflat, brackish lagoons and grazing marsh. It provides an important location for breeding and passage birds as well as for the coastal shingle flora and wildlife (including a large number ofnationally rare species).

Visitors can follow a 5.5 mile route, which can be walked in total or in part (the full walk involves walking on shingle). Don’t leave without trying the locally cultivated oysters!

SAXMUNDHAM

PIN MILL

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n the banks of the River Orwell the hamlet of Pin Mill is a haven of tranquility, loved by artists, walkers and birdwatchers.

The 17th-century Butt & Oyster Inn is so close to the river that it can serve pints of ale through the window to yachtsmen at high tide.

Pin Mill was the setting for Arthur Ransome’s book ‘We Didn’t Mean to Go to Sea’, one of a series of children’s books penned by the author.

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axmundham is a popular market town on the River Fromus at the centre of Suffolk’s Heritage Coastal region.

Saxmundham, or ‘Sax’ as it is known locally, has many local shops and businesses, sports and leisure facilities.

The town has two caravan and camping sites, as well as several excellent hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs. There’s also a market every Wednesday.

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PLACES TO VISIT

Image: Kev B Photography

SOUTHWOLD

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outhwold lies in the centre of an area of great natural beauty – a haven for the walker, the naturalist and the birdwatcher.

Situated on a hill that gently rises from the Blyth Valley, the town is virtually an island, being surrounded by the River Blyth to the south and Buss Creek to the north. This has enabled Southwold to retain its old world charm. The dramatic coastline and the town’s beautiful architecture make it a popular attraction throughout the year.

and pubs, most of which serve ales brewed by the local – and world famous – Adnams Sole Bay Brewery. The Adnams stamp is everywhere and reflected in the cluster of great pubs in the area. The brewery can be found on East Green, which has both brewery and distillery tours available.

In the summer, Southwold’s sandy beaches are a huge draw and out of season some of its most charming elements can be enjoyed – cosy pub lunches, isolated walks or a quiet browse in its many antiques shops.

Southwold’s beach is immaculately kept and is a regular Blue Flag winner. The shore is famous for its rows of brightly coloured beach huts. These days they sell for the price of a small flat!

Southwold looks out over Sole Bay, scene of an inconclusive battle in 1672 between the combined British and French fleet and the Dutch fleet. The town was once known for its herring fishery, and today the attractive harbour is still home to a little fleet of boats.

Quiet and full of character, Southwold is a refreshingly unspoilt coastal resort. In the town centre there’s an exciting selection of interesting and independent shops, selling antiques, crafts and gifts. There’s also a variety of art galleries, boutiques and jewellers scattered around the town.

As you’d expect, first-class seafood can be found in the town’s many fine restaurants

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The Swan Hotel, which dominates the Market Place, is not only an excellent place to stay but has a highly regarded restaurant.

To discover something of Southwold’s maritime heritage visit the Sailors’ Reading Room, on East Cliff overlooking the sea, where the exhibits include ship models, figureheads and early photographs of past seafaring local heroes. There’s more maritime history to be found in The Alfred Corry Lifeboat Museum.

Visitors who climb the winding lighthouse stairs are rewarded with fantastic views.

Those wanting to take to the sea themselves can take the Coastal Voyager sea trip from the harbour.

STOWMARKET

A

town at the geographical heart of rural Suffolk and on the River Gipping, Stowmarket was originally an agricultural market town.

Industry developed upon the canalization, in 1793, of the River Gipping bringing new prosperity to the town. Now the old towpath forms an enjoyable footpath through the Gipping Valley, from Stowmarket railway station to the docks at Ipswich.

Even though it is growing in size and population, Stowmarket hasn’t lost its charm, with a variety of listed buildings typical of Suffolk’s towns and villages, most notably St Peter and St Mary’s Church.

Not to be missed is the Museum of East Anglian Life, one of the UK’s leading open-air museums.

SUDBURY

S

et in the heart of the Stour Valley, the market town of Sudbury was for centuries a centre of the weaving and silkindustries. The painter Thomas Gainsborough was born here and a fine collection of his paintings can be seen in his house, which also has a contemporary art gallery and a print workshop offering summer courses.

The Quay Theatre puts on a lively programme of events and close by visitors can enjoy a lazy boat trip on the River Stour followed by a cream tea at the restored 18th-century Granary. There is still a traditional market, a farmers’ market on the last Friday of each month plus a lovely range of shops to explore.

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THORPENESS

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f there was ever a village that deserved to be called ‘fantastic’, it is Thorpeness. Built at the start of last century by Glencairn Stuart Ogilvie, a wealthy and eccentric Scottish barrister with a penchant for mock Tudor and Jacobean architecture, Thorpeness has a number of unconventional properties under its belt.

Originally a private fantasy holiday village, Ogilvie ingeniously disguised the village’s water tower as an overgrown house, the striking ‘House in the Clouds’, lest it offend the eye. ‘Peter Pan’ fans of all ages can find J M Barrie’s work realised at the Meare boating lake where islands and coves are given names taken from the book. Children are able to play in the Pirate’s Lair and Wendy’s Home, with boats available to rent in order to enjoy the Meare in all its quirkiness.

After an afternoon’s boating enjoy a meal and explore the stalls at the Thorpeness Brasserie and Emporium.

In August the Meare hosts the Thorpness Regatta, attracting visitors looking to enjoy the numerous boat races and impressive fireworks display.

WALBERSWICK

W

alberswick is a village across the River Blyth from Southwold. Until the early 20th century, it was a trading port, but today it is one of Suffolk’s top tourist attractions with half of the properties in the village being holiday homes.

The village and surrounding beach and marshland have long attracted residents drawn from the arts, film and media.

Considering its size, an inordinate number of British celebrities own holiday homes in the village including Emma Freud and her husband Richard Curtis.

The village is the setting for Esther Freud’s novel, The Sea House, thinly disguised as ‘Steerborough’ - presumably a coded reference, or in-joke, towards one-time resident, Philip Wilson Steer.

From 1981 to 2010 the village hosted The British Open Crabbing Championship.

Visitors can still join in the fun, simply set yourself up on a jetty or footbridge and see what you can catch!

The village has tearooms, restaurants, public houses, an art gallery, original crafts and gift shops.

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Woodbridge’s top attraction The Tide Mill Open is the largest daily m single 5p m a 11 ept visitor S l i t un attraction in Woodbridge. It is one of only very few in the country and is both a local and national heritage asset.

Discover its fascinating 850 year history, learn about the art of milling and try our own strong wholemeal our.

See the huge wooden waterwheel and massive machinery and, if the tides are right, see them turning.

The Tide Mill Living Museum Tide Mill Way www.woodbridgetidemill.org.uk Woodbridge www.twitter.com/TideMill_Museum IP12 1BY www.facebook.com/TheTideMillWoodbridge 01394 385295

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PLACES TO VISIT

WOODBRIDGE

T

he picturesque market town of Woodbridge effortlessly mixes the old with the new and attracts thousands of visitors every year.

Whether it’s for a walk along the smooth River Deben overlooking Sutton Hoo, the ancient burial site of the Anglo Saxon Kings tucked across the river estuary or simply to enjoy one of the many cafes and eateries around the town, you’ll find plenty of reasons to return.

The town’s most well-known landmark is the white-boarded Tide Mill, which is neatly nestled between the boat builders, sail makers and chandlers still plying their wares.

It may be one of the earliest mills in the UK - a mill was first recorded on this site in 1170 - but today’s building dates from the 18th century.

In town you will probably want to catch your breath in The Thoroughfare, a cornucopia of delicatessens, boutiques, and bookshops. One of the charms of the town are the tiny winding lanes bedecked on

either side with medieval timbered cottages, Georgian townhouses, and a plethora of cosy pubs.

Market Hill provides one of the best vantage points in town and it’s here that you’ll find Woodbridge Museum, which includes an excellent collection of memorabilia telling the intriguing story of the National Trust’s Sutton Hoo site amongst other things. Then there’s the Shire Hall to explore, built in 1575.

For a fun family day out, head to The Suffolk Punch Trust. With stables, a farm, pretty walks, heritage garden, museum and barn there’s plenty to discover. The Trust is dedicated to preserving the Suffolk Punch breed but also the skills of the people needed to handle these wonderful horses.

Families can get involved with a range of activities including stable demonstrations, feeding the resident pets, tractor trailer rides and arts and crafts.

There’s some lovely walks to enjoy too as this part of the South-East Suffolk coast is an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, popular with dog walkers. eastlife.co.uk

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ATTRACTIONS Beautiful countryside, heaps of history, family fun and adventure...discover Suffolk’s best-loved attractions Abbey Gardens Beautiful public gardens surrounding the ruins of the Abbey. The gardens include a host of children’s play area, tennis courts, putting, bowling green, a tea shop and a riverside walk leading towards a local nature reserve known as No Man’s Meadows.

Bury St Edmunds. www.abbey gardenfriendsburystedmunds.com

Image: Africa Alive

Adnams Brewery Adnams’ famous Suffolk beer has been brewed in Southwold for over 150 years and all around the town you will experience the influences of the brewery.

The brewery itself is a mix of traditional buildings, with cutting edge installations where cask beer has been brewed since 1872. Take a guided tour of the brewery for £12 per person or the distillery for £10 per person.

Southwold. 01502 727225 www.adnams.co.uk

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Aboard the Allen Gardiner Operating from the historic waterfront’s Ipswich Haven Marina in the Wet Dock, cruise the River Orwell down to the Port of Felixstowe, whilst enjoying fine food from an a la carte menu. 01473 558712. www.lady-florence.co.uk Adventure Island Play Park Excellent purpose-built children’s indoor soft play centre. Pinbush Road, Lowestoft. 01502 519933 Alton Water The largest reservoir in Suffolk offering fishing, sailing, windsurfing, picnic area, footpaths, water sports centre extension and visitor centre. Cycle hire available.

Stutton, nr Ipswich.

01473 589105. www.altonwater.co.uk

Anglia Indoor Kart Racing Indoor racing karts and exhilarating multi-level circuit, bringing the thrills of motorsport to all adrenaline-seekers. Ipswich.

01473 240087. www.angliakarting.com The Amber Museum The UK’s only purpose-built museum dedicated to the history of amber. The museum has artefacts, carvings, jewellery and objets d’art; both modern and antique. Southwold.

01502 723394. www.ambershop.co.uk Beccles Lido Heated pool situated by the river Waveney.

Beccles. 01502 713297. www.beccleslido.com Bentwaters Cold War Museum Museum housed in a command post or bunker on what was the USAF air base at RAF Bentwaters. Bentwaters Parks. 07588 877020. www.bcwm.org.uk Africa Alive An award-winning attraction set in 100 acres of dramatic coastal parkland, where you can get close to the animals and discover the sights, sounds and smells of Africa.

Home to more than 80 species of animals from around Africa.

Lowestoft. 01502 740291. www.africa-alive.co.uk

ATTRACTIONS Brandon Country Park 32 acres in the heart of the Brecks with walks, cycle and easy access trails. Brandon. www.brandoncountrypark. org.uk The Brecks One of the great natural areas of Britain with over 370 square miles of forest, heathland and countryside. www.brecks.org Carlton Marshes Over 100 acres of beautiful Suffolk grazing marsh, fens and peat pools to explore via waymarked trails.

Carlton Colville, Lowestoft 01502 564250 Christchurch Mansion A fine Tudor mansion built between 1548 and 1550 with later additions. A good collection of furniture, panelling, ceramics, clocks and paintings from the 16th-19th centuries. Christchurch Park, Ipswich. 01473 433554. www.cimuseums.org.uk Clare Castle Country Park Beautiful quiet space that contains the remains of the 13th century stone castle keep. The nature trail takes in the River Stour and the Railway Walk. Visitor Centre. Maltings Lane. www.clarecastlecountrypark. co.uk Coastal Voyager Fast exciting sea trips from the harbour. Southwold Harbour Kiosk. 07887 525082. www.coastalvoyager.co.uk The Control Tower Museum Learn the fascinating history of this airfield, from the first flights in 1917 to the 1970s, and about the British

and American airmen who worked, fought and died at Martlesham Heath. www.seethingtower.org Deben Cruises Cruises on the River Deben for organised parties. The Quay, Waldringfield, Woodbridge. 01473 736260. www.debencruises.co.uk Dunwich Heath Coastal Centre Enjoy wonderful walks and fabulous views at this site of specific interest within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Dunwich.

01728 648501 East Anglia Transport Museum A working museum where the past comes to life.

Travel as often as you like on historic vehicles or take a trip on the narrow gauge railway. Chapel Road, Carlton Colville, Lowestoft.

01502 518459. www.eat ransportmuseum.co.uk East Point Pavilion Visitor Centre A glass, all-weather Edwardian-style structure with a large indoor play platforms called Mayhem. Small souvenir shop, restaurant and tea rooms. Royal Plain, Lowestoft. 01502 533600 Easton Farm Park Delightful working farm where you can learn all about the different animals, including lambs, ponies, Suffolk Punch Horses, piglets, rare breed cows and more. Chick nursery, adventure playground, pedal tractors, go karts, cafĂŠ and gift shop. Easton. 01728 746475. www.eastonfarmpark.co.uk

Euston Hall Home for the Dukes of The Hall contains, among its many treasures, the famous collection of paintings of the court of Charles II and includes works by Van Dyck, Lely and Stubbs. Visitors are also invited to enjoy the tranquil gardens, the church and the river walk to the recently restored watermill.

Euston. 01842 766366. www.eustonhall.co.uk Electric Picture Palace Owned and run by Southwold Film Society, the Electric Picture Palace shows films in seasons throughout the year, with a short break between each season. Tours of the Palace are also available and usually take place on a Sunday at 2.30pm whilst the cinema is closed between Film Seasons.

Blackmill Road, Southwold.

07815 769565. www.southwoldcinema.co.uk Felixstowe Leisure Centre 25m pool, fitness suites, activity hall, bowls hall, soft play area and more.

Seafront, Felixstowe.

01394 670411 Framlingham Castle A magnificent example of a late 12th century castle.

The castle is notable for its curtain wall with mural towers, an early example of this design. Walk around the impressive wall-walk, explore the mere and admire the fine castle gatehouse.

Events are held throughout the year. Church St, Framlingham. 0370 3331181. www.english-heritage.org. uk/visit/places/framling ham-castle/

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ATTRACTIONS

Fritton Lake A stretch of water where you can mess about on boats, children can enjoy the playground, forts and mini tractors, there’s nine-hole golf, fishing, pony rides and walks. Fritton, nr Lowestoft 0333 4560777. www.frittonlakeoc.co.uk

Glemham Hall An elegant, red brick Elizabethan mansion surrounded by 300 acres of parkland.

The estate now hosts a variety of events including a country fair, open-air opera and theatre. Little Glemham.

01728 746704. www.glemhamhall.co.uk

Fultons Clay Pigeon Shooting ‘Have-a-go’ taster sessions for beginners comprise safety instruction, gun fit, eye dominance check and include gun loan, cartridges, clays, ear and eye protection. Worlington.

07734 735511. www.fultons-shooting.co.uk

Go Ape! Extreme tree-top challenge course - an amazing trail of nets, rope bridges, slides and trapezes high up in the trees. Brandon. 0333 3317849. www.goape.co.uk

Gainsborough’s House Gainsborough’s House and garden is the birthplace of one of Britain’s greatest artists, Thomas Gainsborough R.A (1727-88). The Georgian fronted townhouse and exhibition gallery shows an outstanding collection of his paintings and has a changing programme of displays and temporary exhibitions throughout the year.

Sudbury. 01787 372958. www.gainsborough.org

Greene King Brewery The visitor centre is full of interesting exhibits and displays about the brewery, Bury St Edmunds. www.greeneking.co.uk Hadleigh Town Hall & Guildhall A medieval timber-framed complex, Grade I listed dating from 15th century. There is a timbered guildroom, an old town hall which has a fine crown-post roof, a Georgian assembly room and a Victorian ballroom.

Small walled garden with

medieval features.

Market Place, Hadleigh.

01473 822544. www.hadle ightownhall.co.uk Helmingham Hall Gardens Spectacular Grade 1 listed garden in the grounds of the 500-year-old house, Nr Stowmarket. 01473 890799. www.helmingham.com High Lodge Sporting and leisure venue set in 100 acres of woodland, offering clay target shooting, a pay and play nine-hole golf course, fishing, holiday lodges, shop and more. HawWood, Hinton, 01986 784347. www.highlodge.co.uk High Lodge Forest Centre Right at the heart of Thetford Forest, with over 70km of cycle trail, 20km of walks and a huge children’s Play Arena, it is perfect for families. Home to bike hire and Go Ape, High Lodge has all the facilities you need.

Big summer music concerts in the forest. Open all year.

Thetford. 0300 0674400 www.forestry.gov.uk/highl odge eastlife.co.uk

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ATTRACTIONS The Hollesley Bay Colony Stud The world’s oldest stud farm breeding the endangered Suffolk Horse, operated by The Suffolk Punch Trust.

Visit and see this season’s foals, rare large black pigs, red poll cattle and Suffolk sheep. There’s a large vehicle and implement display, a heritage exhibition, cinema and a play area.

Hollesley. 01394 411327 www.suffolkpunchtrust.org Ipswich Witches Top speedway racing.

Foxhall Stadium, Ipswich www.ipswichwitches.co.uk Ickworth House, Park and Gardens One of England’s most extraordinary houses. The house is set in a Capability brown park and surrounded by an Italianate garden with a range of marked woodland walks, an adventure playground and picnic area.

There’s a vineyard and plant centre, plus regular events.

Horringer, nr Bury St Edmunds. 01284 735270. www. nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth Ipswich Museum This museum gives a fascinating insight into the town and surrounding area’s intriguing past. High Street, Ipswich. 01473 433550 www.cimuseums.org.uk/ Ipswich-Museum Jimmy’s Farm A working farm but also open for visitors seven days a week, there is plenty to do for a great family day out, including a nature trail, 34

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woodland walk, beautiful gardens, farm shop, adventure play area and field kitchen. Pannington Hall Lane, Ipswich 01473 604206 www.jimmysfarm.com Kentwell Hall and Gardens Moated redbrick Tudor mansion in a tranquil parkland setting. Renowned for its incredible recreations of everyday Tudor life and of WWII daily life, along with events such as Scaresville at Halloween. The present owners’ efforts to restore the house and recover and extend the once noted gardens, add to any visit’s enjoyment. Long Melford.

01787 310207. www.kentwell.co.uk Lackford Lakes This nature reserve has year round importance for birds, dragonflies and other wildlife. The visitor centre offers stunning views across the reserve and is an ideal place to start your visit. Lackford, 01284 728541 Lady Florence River Cruises For a different fine dining experience, cruise the calms waters of the river Alde and Ore while enjoying a freshly prepared meal. Orford Quay, Orford. 01473 558712. www.lady-florence.co.uk Lavenham Guildhall of Corpus Christi One of the finest timberframed Tudor buildings in Britain, with tearoom, shop and children’s guide. Market Place, Lavenham.

01787 247646. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Leiston Abbey One of Suffolk’s most impressive monastic ruins of a 14th century abbey with a 16th century brick gatehouse. Leiston.

01728 832500. www.english-heritage.org.uk Long Shop Museum Discover Leiston’s history and visit the home of the Garrett collection. An award-winning museum housed in the original Garrett works buildings. Four exhibition halls, resource centre, picnic garden and gift shop. Main Street, Leiston. 01728 832189. www.longshopmuseum.co.uk Lowestoft Family Bowl Indoor bowling, nine-hole mini-golf. Capital Estate, Rant Score, Whapload Road, Lowestoft.

01502 519200. www.richar dsonsfamilybowl.co.uk The Malthouse Project Restored old maltings, which dates back to the 17th Century. Risbygate Street, Bury St Edmunds.

01284 732550 Mannings Amusement Park This fun park has been run by the Manning family since 1946. Traditional fairground rides and amusement arcades. Seafront, Felixstowe.

01394 282370. www.ma nningsamusements.co.uk Mechanical Music Museum and Bygones Small music boxes, polyphons and organettes, larger street pianos and player organs, large fair

ATTRACTIONS

Melford Hall

organs, dance band and cafe organs plus a number of unusual items and the Wurlitzer theatre pipe organ. Blacksmith Road, Cotton, 01379 783350 Melford Hall Romantic Tudor mansion, home of the Hyde-Parker family. New interpretations, craft displays, special events. Long Melford.

01787 379228. www.nation altrust.org.uk/melford-hall Mid Suffolk Light Railway Museum The MSLR was a classic case of a railway built late in the great railwayage that never paid its way. This example of quirky English history is remembered in Suffolk’s only railway museum. Themed open days held throughout the year.

Brockford Station, Wetheringsett. 01449 766899, www.mslr.org.uk Mildenhall Greyhound Racing Evening racing with up to four races per hour, every Tues and Fri. Mildenhall Stadium, West Row,

Mildenhall. 01638 711777. www.mildenhalldogs.co.uk Moyse’s Hall Museum Housed in the oldest domestic building open to the public in East Anglia, Moyse’s Hall dates back over 800 years. Cornhill, Bury St Edmunds.

01284 757160. www.weststow.org/moyses-hall Museum of East Anglian Life Open-air museum in 75 acres of beautiful countryside. Explore nearly 3km of woodland and riverside nature trails, learn about fascinating East Anglian crafts and traditional Gypsy culture and discover splendidly restored historic buildings. Plus steam engines, animals, including Suffolk Punch horses, and more.

Stowmarket. 01449 612229. www.eastanglianlife.org.uk The National Horseracing Museum The story of the people and horses involved in racing from its Royal origins to Lester Piggott, Frankie Dettoriand others. Highlights include: the head of Persim-

mon, a great Royal Derby winner, a display about Fred Archer and the colourful jackets of ‘Prince Monolulu’, the 1950s tipster. High Street, Newmarket. 01638 667333. www.nhrm.co.uk Newmarket Racecourses One of the world’s greatest racetracks, steeped in history and offering top racing and an unbeatable experience on both its Rowley Mile and July Racecourses. Cambridge Road, Newmarket.

01638 675500. www.new market.thejockeyclub.co.uk Newmarket Tours Palace House can arrange hour long tours of historic Newmarket, explaining in depth its associations with Royalty and the Sport of Kings. Newmarket.

0844 7489200. www.discov ernewmarket.co.uk Nowton Park 200 acres of beautiful Suffolk countryside landscaped over 100 years ago in typical Victorian style.

Open all year. Bury St Edmunds. 01284 757098. www. visitburystedmunds.co.uk eastlife.co.uk

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ATTRACTIONS

ATTRACTIONS

Orwell River Cruises

Oasis Camel Centre Farm Park that specialises in camels, llamas, alpacas, plus a pets corner, play areas, crazy golf, bouncy castle, walks and gift shop.

Orchard Farm, Halesworth.

07836 734748. www.oasiscamelpark.co.uk Orford Castle The polygonal tower keep of Orford Castle stands beside the pretty town and former port which Henry II also developed here in the 1160s. An 18-sided drum with three square turrets, and a forebuilding reinforcing its entrance, the keep was built to a highly innovative design. Orford. 0370 3331181 www.english-heritage.org.uk Orwell River Cruises Enjoy the sights and scenes of the beautiful River Orwell from the comfort and tranquillity of the Orwell Lady – a custom-built river cruiser sailing from Ipswich Wet Dock to Harwich Harbour.

Meander along the River Orwell enjoying a traditional homemade English Afternoon or a Suffolk Savoury

Tea cruise on-board Orwell Lady. Cruises from Ipswich between May and September. Prices from £26 pp.

Orwell Quay, Ipswich Wet Dock. 01473 258070. www.orwellrivercruises.co.uk Pakenham Water Mill Suffolk’s last working water mill, producing traditional stone ground flour.

Beautiful setting with garden by the millpond, guided tours, tea room, shop and special events.

Pakenham. 01284 724075. www.pakenhamwatermill. org.uk Pleasurewood Hills Set within 59 acres of enclosed coastal parkland and just 10mins from the seaside town of Great Yarmouth, the theme park is a great family day out. Enjoy thriling rides, family rides, entertainment and attractions, including wonderful shows with sea lions, parrots, acrobats and clowns. New features added regularly. Corton, Lowestoft.

01502 586000 www.pleasurewoodhills.com

River Stour Trust Boat trips from Sudbury to Great Henny and vice versa on Edwardian style electric launch with a traditional canopy or a pontoon-style boat. Take in lunch at the delightful Henny Swan.

The Granary, Quay Lane, Sudbury. 01787 313199. www.riverstourtrust.org RSPB Havergate Island The island is famous for its breeding avocets and terns, which can be seen throughout the spring and summer.

The boat trip to the island adds to the interest of your day out. Prior booking essential. Orford Quay.

01394 450732. www.rspb.org.uk RSPB Lakenheath Fen A wetland area filled with life: marsh harriers, hobbies, bearded tits and warblers.

Lakenheath. 01842 863400 RSPB Wolves Wood One of the few remaining areas of an ancient woodland that used to cover much of East Anglia.

Hadleigh. 01206 391153 eastlife.co.uk

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ATTRACTIONS St Edmundsbury Cathedral There has been a church on the site of Suffolk’s Cathedral for nearly 1,000 years.

The last 40 years have seen several additions to the church and its associated buildings, culminating in the Millennium Project. Regular exhibitions and concerts available. Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds. 01284 748720. www.stedscathedral.co.uk

South Pier Leisure Complex Ten-pin bowling, amusement arcades, luxury casino and more. Royal Plain, Lowestoft. 01502 512793. www.thesouthpier.co.uk

Sandlings Forests The Sandlings covers woods in Rendlesham, Tangham and Dunwich. Rendlesham forest is the main area for recreation and there are various picnic sites and recreation areas. There are three circular walks including disabled trails and forest cycle trails and an adventure playground. Nr Woodbridge. 01394 450164

Southwold Maize Maze A giant puzzle of pathways within eight acres of maize; a real brain-teaser that will test your navigational skills to the limit. Every year there’s a new design. Plus play and picnic area. Old Hall Farm, Reydon. 07801 065845. www.southwold maizemaze.co.uk

Saxtead Green Postmill This corn mill was one of many built in Suffolk from the late 13th century.

Though milling ceased in 1947, it is still in working order. Climb the stairs to various floors, which are full of fascinating mill machinery. Saxtead Green. 0370 3331181. www.english-heri tage.org.uk Somerleyton Hall & Gardens A Jacobean Manor with 12 acres of beautiful gardens with famous 1846 Yew Tree Maze. Guided tours of the hall, garden trail, walled garden and special events.

Somerleyton, Lowestoft.

0871 2224244. www.somerleyton.co.uk

38

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Southwold Lighthouse Enjoy a tour of this marvellous operational landmark, first lit in 1889. Stradbroke Road. 01502 724729. www.trinityhouse.co.uk

Southwold Pier Southwold Pier is one of the finest examples of a Pier to be found in the British isles. From traditional fish and chips in the Promenade Café to mouthwatering menus in the Boardwalk and The Clockhouse. Plus gift shop, children’s shop and lifestyle store, amusements and more. North Parade, Southwold.

01502 722105. www.southwoldpier.co.uk Suffolk Owl Sanctuary A delightful place to visit to watch, study or simply enjoy the Owls and other birds of prey. There are over 60 raptors at the centre, all housed in spacious aviaries and flying free in narrated flying displays or demonstrations plus a mini-maze.

Stonham Aspal.

0845 680789. www.owl-help.org.uk Sutton Hoo One of Britain’s most important and atmospheric archaeological sites, burial ground of the Anglo-Saxon kings of East Anglia. Explore the exhibition hall which tells the compelling story of early English history, The Royal Burial Mounds and Tranmer House. You can also enjoy sandlings heathland and woodland walks. Events are held throughout the year. Nr Woodbridge.

01394 389700. www.nation altrust.org.uk/sutton-hoo Thornham Walks Twelve miles of footpaths through the woodland, farmland and parkland of the Thornham Estate. Red House Yard, Thornham Magna, Eye. 01379 788345 The Thornham Walled Garden Restored Victorian glasshouses in the idyllic setting of a two-acre walled garden with fruit trees, wide perennial borders, collection of East Anglian geraniums and fern house. 01379 788700. www.beyondthewall.org.uk Thorpeness Windmill This working mill dates from 1803 and is a visitor centre for Suffolk coast and heaths area of outstanding natural beauty. Uplands Road, Thorpeness.

Valley Farm Equestrian Leisure A working farm and a

Southwold Pier

diverse, multi award-winning equestrian leisure centre. Attractions include an animal collection and their foals, as well as Camelot the Camel, Muffin the Mule and other animal friends, as featured many timeson television. Wickham Market, Woodbridge. 01728 746916 www.valleyfarm.co.uk Waveney River Centre A range of vessels available for hire from rowing boats and canoes to luxury day cruisers. A great way to take in the sights and sounds of this beautiful stretch of water. Overnight accommodation also available. Burgh St Peter, Beccles. 01502 677343 www.waveneyrivercentre. co.uk Waveney River Tours River trips from Oulton Broad to a number of destinations along the southern Broads. Self-drive day boats available for hire.

Mutford Lock, Oulton Broad, Lowestoft. 01502 574903 www.waveneyrivertours.com

West Stow Anglo-Saxon Village A reconstructed AngloSaxon village built on an original settlement site, giving visitors the opportunity to touch and experience Anglo-Saxon houses as we imagine them to have been 1,500 years ago. Visitors can also see the archaeological objects excavated from the site on display in a specially built centre. West Stow.

01284 728718 www.weststow.org West Stow Country Park 125-acre country park with a wide range of Breckland habitats - heath, woodland, river and a lake. There are nature trails, walks, bird hides and a bird feeding/ viewing area, visitor centre, cafĂŠ, shop, picnic areas and adventure playground.

Icklingham Road, West Stow, Bury St Edmunds.

01284 728718 www.weststow.org Wildtracks Off Road Activity Park Purpose-built offroad activity park dedicated to a

range of fun outdoor events for the public and corporate entertainment market. Enjoy activities such as offroad driving, karting and clay pigeon shooting to name a few! Chippenham Road, Kennett, Newmarket.

01638 751918 www.wildtracksltd.co.uk Woodbridge Tide Mill By the early 1950s Woodbridge was home to the only surviving tidal mill in the country. It regularly grinds high quality wholemeal flour when conditions are suitable, and at most low tides the machinery will turn. When the machinery turns, the whole building comes alive. It affords a fascinating and educational glimpse into our industrial and technological past.

Tide Mill Way, Woodbridge.

01394 385295. www.wood bridgetidemill.org.uk Woodbridge Museum Local history museum.

Market Hill, Woodbridge.

01394 380502 www.suffolkmuseums.org

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Explore the beauty of the River Orwell with

Orwell Lady River Cruises

Over 60 antiques dealers under one roof selling a wide range of antiques, collectables and vintage items.

Visit our Arts & Crafts Beach Huts and The Flying Goose Café.

The River Orwell has been officially voted the 2nd most beautiful river in the country behind only the River Dart.

Orwell Lady provides a unique opportunity to experience the beauty, local wildlife and the extensive history of our magnificent river and harbour, together with close up views of the huge ships at Port of Felixstowe, beginning and ending her trips at Ipswich Waterfront.

Daytime Public Cruises • Music Nights English Afternoon Tea Cruises • Sunday Lunch Buffets Private Charters • School Trips • Coach Parties Welcome

Orwell River Cruises Ltd

01473 258070

www.orwellrivercruises.com

There are five acres of open gardens and fields to enjoy and ample free parking.

We are open 6 days a week: Monday to Saturday 10.00am to 5. 00pm Sundays and Bank Holidays 10.00am to 4.00pm Closed Tuesdays.

01728 668844

www.yoxfordantiques.com Find us on the A1120, between Yoxford and Peasenhall (IP17 3JW).

TRANSPORT & ENGINEERING HERITAGE IN OUR COUNTY TOWN

Over 100 major exhibits - all made or used in Ipswich!

OPEN EVERY SUNDAY & BANK HOLIDAY

11am - 4pm UNTIL 27th NOVEMBER

Plus MONDAY to FRIDAY 1pm - 4pm during EASTER, SUMMER & AUTUMN School Holidays

We also welcome group & educational visits See Website for our Special Events

See inside with Google Streetview!

The Old Trolleybus Depot, Cobham Road, Ipswich IP3 9JD

GIFT SHOP - TEA ROOM - WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

www.ipswichtransportmuseum.co.uk the best of Suffolk

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Gainsborough’s House Gainsborough’s House Museum & Gallery Museum & Gallery

orough’s House

seum & Gallery

Gainsborough’s House is the childhood home of Thomas Gainsborough RA (1727-1788) and displays an outstanding collection of his paintings, drawings and prints. A varied programme of temporary exhibitions is also shown throughout the year.

The historic house dates backis tothe the 16th century and has an attractive walled garden.

Gainsborough’s House childhood home

of Thomas Gainsborough RA (1727-1788) Group tours and refreshments available and displays an outstanding collection Open daily: 10am to 5pm (Sundays 11am to 5pm) of his paintings, drawings and prints.

Gainsborough’s House, 46 Gainsborough Street, Sudbury Suffolk CO10 2EU 01787 372958|mail@gainsborough.org |www.gainsborough.org A varied programme of temporary exhibitions Registered Charity number: 214046 is also shown throughout the year.

The historic house dates back to the 16th century and has an attractive walled garden.

GroupRA tours and refreshments ome of Thomas Gainsborough (1727-1788) and displaysavailable an gs and prints. A varied programme of temporary exhibitions is alsoto 5pm) Open daily: 10am to 5pm (Sundays 11am e dates back to the 16th century and has an attractive walled garden.

Gainsborough’s House, 46 Gainsborough Street, and refreshments available Sudbury Suffolk CO10 2EU

m to 5pm (Sundays 11am to 5pm)

01787 372958 | mail@gainsborough.org | www.gainsborough.org

insborough Street, Sudbury Suffolk CO10 2EU insborough.org |www.gainsborough.org Registered Charity Number: 214046

egistered Charity number: 214046

SHOPPING & ENTERTAINMENT A retail haven awaits during the day, whilst at night Suffolk comes to life with a mix of enjoyable entertainment SHOPPING Arc Bury St Edmunds This fabulous centre is the heart of shopping in Bury St Edmunds with a great array of fashionable retailers, shops and restaurants, topped off by the breathtaking curved Debenhams flagship store. Prospect Row, Bury St Edmunds. 01284 706037 Bridge Farm Barns Located in Monks Eleigh, one of Suffolk’s prettiest villages, Bridge Farm Barns is a collection of independent retail businesses and a tea room, each offering a good selection of distinctive products. Monks Eleigh.

01449 740456. www.bridgefarmbarns.co.uk Buttermarket A centre situated in the retail core of Ipswich and featuring many familiar high street names. St Stephen’s Lane, Ipswich. 01473 281580 The Guineas Retailers offering brands at affordable prices.

Newmarket. 01638 665809 Snape Maltings A collection of quality shops and galleries in converted granaries and malt house buildings by the River Alde.

There’s a large house and garden shop, a food hall, shops selling fashions and crafts and the Quay; a large antiques centre and two art galleries. Regular events are 42

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held throughout the year.

Snape, nr Aldeburgh.

01728 688303 www.snapemaltings.co.uk Stonham Barns A leisure, shopping and rural pursuits complex with specialist craft, antique, home furnishing and interiors shops and a restaurant. Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, Stowmarket. 01449 711111 www.stonhambarns.co.uk Sailmakers Shopping Centre Last year the shopping centre underwent a £4m transformation. It is home to big name brands and independent retailers. Ipswich. 01473 226386. www. sailmakersshopping.co.uk ENTERTAINMENT Aldeburgh Cinema A delightful independent cinema. The auditorium dates back to around 1920, and today it has 286 seats and all the latest technology. 51 High Street.

01728 454884. www.aldeburghcinema.co.uk The Apex Bury St Edmunds’ state-ofthe-art music and entertainment venue presents a wide variety of events throughout the year. Live music ranges from jazz to classical and folk to rock. Regular events include Comedy Club and a range of dance events.

The venue plays host to the Bury St Edmunds Festival, a plethora of music which

runs 20-29 May 2016. The auditorium is acoustically designed for perfect sound and the white oak galleries give a contemporary feel. There are studios for workshops, including dance classes. All artwork is based on the theme of music and exhibitions change on a regular basis. Bury St Edmunds. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk Cineworld Cardinal Park, Grafton Way, Ipswich. 0871 2002000 Electric Picture Palace Owned and run by Southwold Film Society this delightful small cinema was opened in 1991 by Michael Palin. It has 66 authentic cinema seats, a box office, kiosk, circle, organ and air-conditioning. Southwold 07815 769565. www.southwoldcinema.co.uk DanceEast DanceEast offers a diverse programme of events and activities as well as providing the best quality dance opportunities to everyone across Suffolk and beyond.

Jerwood DanceHouse, Ipswich. 01473 295230. www.danceeast.co.uk Fisher Theatre Georgian building that started life as a theatre but spent most of its life serving other purposes until 2001 when it reopened as a centre for shows, arts

The Snape Maltings

and film. It has a changing programme throughout the year. Broad Street, Bungay.

01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org Haverhill Arts Centre Originally the Town Hall, this 210-seat auditorium hosts music, theatre, arts events, and films. High Street, Haverhill. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre. co.uk Marina Theatre This superb theatre dates back to 1897 and today hosts a range of top flight shows. Lowestoft.

01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk New Cut Arts Centre Community arts centre hosting a range of theatre and music productions, plus film screenings. New Cut, Halesworth. 0845 6732123 newcut.org New Wolsey Theatre A 400-seat theatre with a varied programme of drama, music, comedy, poetry, dance and children’s shows. Civic Drive, Ipswich.

Image credt: Visitsuffolk.com Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds

01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk Palace Cinema Fabulous independent cinema dating back to 1937 and offering blockbuster movies and a real retro cinema experience.

Crescent Road, Felixstowe.

01394 282787. felixstowecinema.com Quay Theatre Small, charming theatre by the Stour offering a wide range of shows and films.

Quay Lane, Sudbury.

01787 374745. quaysudbury.com Regent Theatre and Corn Exchange The Regent is East Anglia’s largest theatre, and the Corn Exchange has an impressive Grand Hall. They feature top West End shows, international music, comedy and high quality amateur productions. Ipswich.

01473 433100 www.ipswichregent.co.uk Riverside Theatre Films, occasional stage shows and restaurant.

Quayside, Woodbridge.

01394 382174. www.theriverside.co.uk The Seagull The theatre offers a diverse range of shows, classes and workshops. Morton Road, Pakefield, Lowestoft. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk Seckford Theatre A 350-seat theatre that reflects the commitment of both Woodbridge School and the Seckford Foundation to benefit all in the local area. 01394 615100. www.seckfordtheatre.org Snape Maltings Concert Hall The auditorium is home to concerts, the Snape Proms and a host of community concerts and performances.

Snape, nr Aldeburgh. 01728 687100. www.aldeburgh.co.uk Theatre Royal The theatre has a jam-packed schedule of performances including theatre, musical, comedy and dance throughout the year. Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds. 01284 755127 www.theatreroyal.org eastlife.co.uk

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Drama, music and stand up plus much more at the UK’s only surviving Regency Playhouse.

A WORLD CLASS VENUE ON THE IPSWICH WATERFRONT

PERFORMANCES CLASSES & COURSES FOR ALL AGES PROFESSIONAL ARTIST DEVELOPMENT CENTRE FOR ADVANCED TRAINING WORKSHOPS & MASTERCLASSES COMMUNITy ENGAGEMENT SUMMER SCHOOLS

BOX OFFICE 01284 769505 BOOK ONLINE www.theatreroyal.org

BIG BRANDS, SMALL PRICES

CL AC FACTOR TON

DISCOU Y OUTLET NTED FA S FOOT W EAR, FU HION, RNITUR A ND MU CH MOR E E!

Clacton Factory Outlet, Stephenson Road West, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex CO15 4TL Contact us or visit us online to get more news on events, store offers and much more!

01255 479595 www.clactonfactoryoutlet.co.uk

FA S H I O N O U T L E T S • L E I S U R E S T O R E S • C A F E S F UR NI T UR E A ND HOME WA R E S • F R E E PA R K ING

@TheatreRoyalBSE

ARTS & CRAFTS

ART LOVERS WILL FIND MANY CONTEMPORARY LANDSCAPES AND SEASCAPES IN GALLERIES THROUGHOUT THE COUNTY Aldeburgh Gallery 143 High Street, Aldeburgh 01728 452772 Angel Gallery 17 Market Place, Lavenham 01787 248417 The Apex Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds. 01284 758000 Beyond the Image Gallery Red House Yard, Thornham Magna. 01508 480477 Blackthorpe Barns Rougham, Bury St Edmunds 01359 270238 Buckenham Galleries 81 High Street, Southwold 01502 725418 Cork Brick Gallery 6 Earsham Street, Bungay 01986 894873 Craftco High Street, Southwold 01502 723211 Eyestorm Gallery 27-29 St Nicholas Street, Ipswich, 01473 222197 Ferini Art Gallery All Saints Road, Pakefield, Lowestoft 01502 562222 1st Floor Gallery 1 Lower Downs Slade, Haverhill 01440 762444

Halesworth Gallery Steeple’s End, Halesworth 01986 872409 Hunter Gallery Coconut House, Long Melford 01787 466117 Imagine Gallery Hall Street, Long Melford, 01787 378786 Jessica Muir Gallery Hall Street, Long Melford 01787 310400 John Russell Gallery 4 - 6 Wherry Lane, Ipswich 01473 212051 Kersey Pottery The Street, Kersey 01473 822092 Kesgrave Arts 83 Main Rd, Kesgrave 01473 333553 Lavenham Contemporary Gallery, Hall Street, Lavenham 01787 249451 Lime Tree Gallery Hall Street, Long Melford 01787 319046 Reunion Gallery 36 Gainsborough Road, Felixstowe. 01394 273366 Sea Pictures Gallery Well Lane, Clare 01787 279024

Serena Hall Gallery 16 Queen St, Southwold 01502 723887 Smiths Row The Market Cross, Cornhill, Bury St Edmunds.

01284 762081 Snape Maltings Snape, nr Aldeburgh 01728 688303 Southwold Gallery High Street, Southwold 01502 723888 Spiral Gallery High St, Debenham 01728 861699 Thompson’s Gallery 175 High St, Aldeburgh 01728 453743 The Town Hall Galleries Cornhill, Ipswich 01473 432865 The Upstairs Gallery Exchange Square, Beccles 01502 717191 The Wildlife Art Gallery High Street, Lavenham 01787 248562 Wildwood Gallery Churchgate St, Bury St Edmunds 07710532735 Wingfield Barns Church Rd, 01379 384505

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FOOD & DRINK In Suffolk there’s no shortage of places to find delicious home grown and locally produced food Adnams The brewer of distinctly nautical ales including Broadside and Explorer, along with a range of seasonal brews. The empire also includes an estate of over 50 pubs and two hotels in its home port of Southwold. 01502 727200 www.adnams.co.uk Alder Carr Farm Shop Alder Carr Farm raise their own Highland cattle for beef, and produce a delicious range of fruit ice-creams. The farm shop and delicatessen sells a huge range of local produce. There’s also a Barn Cafe. The farm will host a Strawberry Fayre on 18 June 2016. Creeting St Mary.

01449 720820 www.aldercarrfarm.co.uk Aspall Cyder Eight generations of the Chevalier family in Debenham have produced Aspall Suffolk Cyder. All apples pressed for the cyder are from the local area. 01728 860510. www.aspall.co.uk Assington Farm Shop The Barn at Assington sells homemade and local produce. There’s also other businesses on-site. The Street, Assington, Sudbury.

01787 210951. www.thebarnassington.co.uk Bartrams Brewery A micro-brewery run by Marc Bartram since 1999 46

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that has won a host of sought-after awards, including one for the label of Comrade Bill Bartrams Egalitarian Anti Imperialist Soviet Stout. Bury St Edmunds. 01449 73765 www.bartramsbrewery.co.uk Butley Orford Oysterage An experience where you can enjoy fish as fresh as it comes. Perfect fresh fish and seafood, oysters from Pinney’s own beds, a large range of fish from their own smokehouse, all available in the shop or restaurant.

Market Hill, Orford.

01394 450277. www.pinneysoforford.co.uk The Chilli Company Started in 2001, The Chilli Company has grown over the years. Based in a 400 year old converted barn which houses the deli and cafe with the nursery open to the public during the summer. They grow and and sell over 50 varieties of chilli plants, using them to make a range of homemade chilli including chilli scones, chilli sausage rolls and chilli brownies and its own chilli ice cream. Mendlesham.

01449 766677 www.chillicompany.com Earl Soham A brewery based in an old chicken shed behind the Victoria pub since 1985 before being reopened in 2001 after a refit. Its beers which include Victoria Bitter,

Albert Ale, Gannet Mild, Empress India and Porter - are now available pubs in the region. 01728 861213. www.earlsohambrewery. co.uk Emmets of Peasenhall Mark Thomas is widely recognised as producing the finest hams in southeast England, using locally reared, free-range Suffolk pork and curing and smoking on the premises at his delightful well-stocked shop that has a Royal Warrant.

Vintage Velvet hams are cured with port, others with cider. Peasenhall, Saxmundham. 01728 660250 www.emmettsham.co.uk Farmcafe and Foodmarket An oasis on the A12 offering locally produced food in both the café and shop. A12, Marlesford, Woodbridge 01728 747717 www.farmcafe.co.uk Friday Street Farm Shop Locally produced organic veg and chocolate are sold beside a wide range of home-grown seasonal vegetables. A good selection of organic meat includes beef, chicken, pork and lamb.

Cafe on-site. Farnham, nr Saxmundham.

01728 602783. www.farmshopsuffolk.co.uk Goslings Farm Shop This well stocked general farm store offers plenty of home grown and local

fruit and vegetables, meats and poultry, cakes, bread and preserves and a range of gluten free and vegetarian foods. They also offer a wide range of pick-yourown soft fruit and veg. To add to your visit there’s a coffee shop and cakes, and a packed plant centre.

Longford House, Trimley St Mary, Felixstowe.

01394 273361. www.goslingsfarm.co.uk Grange Farm Shop Seasonal apples are a speciality here, sold beside home-grown pears, plums, blackcurrants and more.

The shop also offers a range of locally sourced products including seasonal veg, groceries, meat, cakes, juices and ice cream. Grundisburgh Road, Hasketon, Woodbridge. 01473 735610 Green Jack A three-man team producing beer inside the Triangle Tavern who produced a brew called Ripper which was voted the best winter beer in the UK. All its beers are known for their hoppy

character thanks to a blend of local and new world hops.

Lowestoft. 01502 562863 www.green-jack.co.uk Greene King A pub owner and brewer based in Bury St Edmunds for over 200 years, Greene King is responsible for iconic beers including Abbot, Old Speckled Hen, Ruddles County and its eponymous IPA. Bury St Edmunds 01284 763222 www.greeneking.co.uk Hadleigh Maid Chocolates Beautifully packaged chocolates carefully hand-made by a team of chocolate fanatics in the picturesque town of Hadleigh. George Street, Hadleigh. 01473 828996 www.hadleighmaid.com High House Fruit Farm Fruit growers for more than 40 years with a shop that’s open daily selling fresh fruit, juices and preserves or pick your own! Sudbourne, Woodbridge. www.high-house.co.uk

Hollow Trees Farm Shop This Les Routier accredited farm shop has been established for 20 years.

You’ll find local meat, locally baked bread, home-grown vegetables, hay for pets, smoked fish, fine cheeses, local ales and ciders and home grown cut flowers and plants. There’s also a farm trail that takes you through the fields and livestock sheds, and a café. Semer, nr Hadleigh. 01449 741247 www.hollowtrees.co.uk James White A range of bottled fruit juices produced just eight miles north of Ipswich and available to buy region wide. www.jameswhite.co.uk Jimmy’s Farm A great family day out with trails and play areas. In the farm shop you can buy its home reared free-range pig produce, beef and lamb in the butchers as well as an abundance of herbs and veggies from the garden.

Pannington Hall Lane, Wherstead. 01473 604206 www.jimmysfarm.com eastlife.co.uk

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Discover something unique...

Breakfasts, Lunches & Cream Teas

Beautiful Flowers & Plants

Vintage Collectables and Furniture

Large Selection of Gifts & Cards

Falconry Displays & Experiences

Traditional Toys & Games

Bridge Farm Barns

Quilting & Felting Art & Craft Gallery

Telephone: 01449 740456

Monks Eleigh, Nr Lavenham, Suffolk IP7 7AY

www.bridgefarmbarns.co.uk

C

e

Q leb u bi ee ra rt n tin hd 's g ay 90 th

th e

Euston Rural Pastimes Event

A fun, family day out in the beautiful surroundings of Euston Park.

Sunday 12 June 2016 10 am – 6 pm Euston Park, Euston, IP24 2QH

Scur ry and Trials

The Devil’s Horsemen

Tract ion engines, dog shows and much more!

Plus a street party to celebrate the Queen's 90th birthday!

Adults £10, children 12 and under £5, under fives go free.

For earlybird ticket prices visit www.eustonruralpastimes.org.uk

FOOD & DRINK Marybelle A family run business, located in the heart of Suffolk’s beautiful countryside, making a fabulous range of dairy products for East Anglia. All of its milk is sourced from local family farms. Its products include milk, yoghurt, cream, creme fraiche, and the popular Suffolk Meadow range of ice creams. Walpole, Halesworth 01986 784658 www.marybelle.co.uk Mauldons A micro-brewery set up in 1981 by Peter Mauldon, re-establishing a family business dating back to the 18th century. Though it has since been purchased by an outsider it continues to produce the old favourites, including award-winning Black Adder. Sudbury 01787 311055 www.mauldons.co.uk Merrivale Tea Room A beautifully designed tea room, perfect for a cup of tea and slice of cake. In warmer months make the most of the outdoor terrace.

Model Village souvenirs also available. S Beach Parade, Great Yarmouth. 01493 842097. www.merrivale modelvillage.co.uk Musk’s It’s not just horses Newmarket is famous for. The recipe for these sausages is a closely guarded secret and unchanged since the days of Queen Victoria. Today, the company still supplies sausages to the Queen.

01638 662626 50

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Paddy and Scott’s Independent coffee brand based in Earl Soham producing gourmet traditional hand-roasted coffee.

0844 4778586 www.paddyandscotts.co.uk Palmers Bakeries The oldest traditional family bakers and confectioners in Suffolk. Established in 1869, the Palmer Family use only traditional ingredients and methods. Shops located in Haughley, Stowmarket, Woolpit, Stanton, Claydon, Meredith and Norwich Road in Ipswich. www.palmersbakery.co.uk Powters Since 1881, Powters has built a reputation for its ‘Newmarket Sausage’. Prime cuts of East Anglian pork, freshly boned by hand and mixed with their secret blend of herbs and spices gives this a distinctive flavour.

Wellington Street, Newmarket. 01638 662418 www.powters.co.uk Rookery Farm Shop Locally produced Double Fudge Delight ice cream is one of a number of specialities. The shop also sells Sutton Hoo chicken, local lamb, smoked fish, honey and seasonal veg such as purple sprouting broccoli and butternut squash. Tattingstone, Ipswich. 01473 327220 St Peters A brewery relying on Anglian malts and water drawn up from the chalky ground within its perimeter.

It supplements a range of

traditional beers with seasonal treats such as honey porter and fruit beer, as well as a gluten free variety. Bungay. 01986 78232 www.stpetersbrewery.co.uk Shawsgate Vineyard One of East Anglia’s oldest commercial vineyards producing a range of white, red and rosé wines. Wander around the vineyard, visit the shop, or take a tour.

Events held throughout the year. Badingham Road, Framlingham. 01728 724060 www.shawsgate.co.uk Suffolk Farmhouse Cheeses All cheeses are made from Jason and Elisabeth Salisbury’s Guernsey cows on their farm in Cottenham.

01449 710458 www.suffolkcheese.co.uk Suffolk Food Hall The Food Hall brings together several businesses under one roof providing an outlet for the best local quality food. There is all that you would expect from an internationallyrecognised farm shop, and more. Traditional carcass to customer butchery, scratch bakery operating seven days a week, stunning fishmonger’s counter, delightful delicatessen and more. The enjoyment is extended with the Home & Garden department, lovely walks along the river in the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, children playing on the Jumping Pillow whilst parents have coffee in the Café. There’s also a bistrostyled Restaurant and Cook-

Suffolk Food Hall

ery School. New for 2016 is series of Masterclasses.

Wherstead. 01473 786610 www.suffolkfoodhall.co.uk Stokes Sauces From their ‘Saucery’ in the heart of Suffolk, Stokes produce an award-winning range of quality mayonnaises, sauces, mustards, relishes, chutneys, dressings, jams and marmalades, in the Stokes, Suffolk Mud and Staverton Ewe brands.

01394 462150. www.stokessauces.co.uk

visit during the short asparagus season for a taste of those alone. Lower Road, Glemsford, Long Melford. 01787 280341 www.willowtreefarmshop. co.uk

Valley Farm Vineyards 14 acres of vineyards that produce fine English wines.

The Visitor Centre is situated in a newly restored 18th century barn. Wissett, Halesworth. 01986 785535 www.valleyfarmvineyards. co.uk

Willow Trees Farm Shop Willow Trees Farm Shop sells as much seasonal and local produce as possible, and it is all superb quality. Thereare cheeses and chickens, cakes and breads, as well as classic frozen vegetables and ready meals. Willow Trees also stock a wide range of locally produced jams and chutneys, oils and sauces, and they are well worth a eastlife.co.uk

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Featuring

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F E S TI VA L 20 1 6 2 JULY

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EVENTS

DISCOVER WHAT’S ON OUR GUIDE TO THIS YEAR’S FESTIVALS, CONCERTS, COUNTRY SHOWS & MORE Busted at Newmarket Nights

APRIL 9-10 Apr The Sutton Hoo Festival of Craftsmanship Sutton Hoo, Woodbridge www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ sutton-hoo/whats-on 10-Apr 9th Suffolk Classic Bike Show British Legion Hall, Cordell Road, Long Melford MAY 1-May Beccles Antiques Street Market Beccles Town Centre 14-May Into the Woods ‘A Pirate’s Ball’ Thorington, IP17 3RB www.mauiwauievents.co.uk 14 May - 5 Jun Suffolk Walking Festival Various locations www.suffolkwalkingfestival. co.uk

22-May East Anglian Dragon Boat Festival 2016 Oulton Broad, Lowestoft www.dragonboatfestivals. co.uk JUNE 1-2 Jun Suffolk Show Trinity Park, Ipswich www.trinityparkevents.co.uk

10-12 Jun Homegrown Festival 2016 Church Farm, Barrow homegrownfest.co.uk 11-12 Jun Eye Gardens Open Eye Town Hall, Eye Town Centre www.eyesuffolk.org

2-4 Jun Red Rooster Euston Hall www.redrooster.org.uk

12-Jun The Taste of Sudbury Food & Drink Festival St. Peter’s Church, Sudbury www.tasteofsudbury.co.uk

5-Jun Truly Vintage Wedding Fair Glemham Hall, www.glemhamhall.co.uk

17-19 Jun 7th Ale and Music Festival Deepdale Farm www.deepdalefarm.co.uk

9-12 Jun Giant Plant Sale Trinity Park, Ipswich www.trinityparkevents.co.uk

17-18 Jun Great East Swim Alton Water Sports Centre www.suffolksport.com

10-26 Jun Aldeburgh Festival 2016 Various venues www.aldeburgh.co.uk

25-Jun Music for a Summer Evening St Mary’s Church, Bungay

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EVENTS JULY 1-3 Jul Maverick Festival Easton Farm Park, Easton Woodbridge www.maverickfestival.co.uk 1-2 Jul Outdoor Cinema at Holkham Holkham Hall www.holkham.co.uk 2-Jul ThorpeFest (Music Festival by the Sea) Thorpeness www.thorpefest.co.uk 2-3 Jul Heveningham Hall Country Fair with Wings & Wheels Heveningham Hall, IP19 0PN www.countryfair.co.uk 2-3 Jul Coach & Horses Beef Festival & Family Fun Day Melton, Woodbridge www.debeninns.co.uk/ coachandhorses 10-Jul Old Newton Country Fayre and Dog Show Old Newton Village Hall and Recreation Ground www.oldnewtoncountryfayre. co.uk 14-17 Jul Latitude Festival Henham Park, Southwold www.latitudefestival.com 17-Jul Woodbridge Book Fair Woodbridge Community Centre, Station Road www.missingbookfairs.co.uk 20-22 Jul Thorpeness Festival of Golf Thorpeness Golf Club www.thorpeness.co.uk/golf festival

EVENTS 22-Jul Busted at Newmarket Nights Newmarket Racecourse newmarket.thejockeyclub. co.uk 23-24 Jul Jimmy’s Farm Sausage and Beer Festival Wherstead, Ipswich jimmysfarm.com 23-24 Jul Felixstowe Carnival Felixstowe www.felixstowecarnival.org 31-Jul Suffolk Dog Day Helmingham Hall Estate www.suffolkdogday.com AUGUST 6-Aug Thorpeness Village Fete Thorpeness 6-7 Aug 28th Southwold Model Railway Exhibition Saint Felix School, Halesworth Road www.waveneyvalleymrc.150m. com 7-Aug Suffolk Coast Cycle Ride Starts at Glemham Hall www.bike-events.co.uk 13-15 Aug Aldeburgh Carnival Aldeburgh www.aldeburghcarnival.com 19-Aug Thorpeness Regatta and Fireworks The Meare www.aldeburghcarnival.com 19-21 Aug FolkEast Glemhall Hall, Woodbridge www.folkeast.co.uk

21-Aug Westleton Barrel Fair Westleton www.westletonbarrelfair. com

4-Oct Walking Women Holkham Park www.holkham.co.uk/event/ walking-women

28-29 Aug The Bury St Edmunds Food and Drink Festival Town Centre, Bury St Edmunds www.burystedmundsfesti vals.com

8-Oct Bardwell Tractor Run The Dun Cow, Bardwell heyevent.uk

Aug dates tbc Snape Proms Snape Maltings, Aldeburgh www.aldeburgh.co.uk SEPTEMBER 2-4 Sept Maui Waui Festival 2016 Peakhill Farm, Theberton www.mauiwauievents.co.uk 4-Sep Art on the Prom Seafront, Felixstowe www.artontheprom.org 18-Sep Lavenham Sinfonia Lavenham Church www.lavenham-sinfonia. co.uk 23-25 Sept Retro Dub VW Festival Bentwaters Park www.retrodub-suffolk.co.uk 24-25 Sept Aldeburgh Food & Drink Festival Snape Maltings www.aldeburghfoodanddrink. co.uk OCTOBER Date TBC Wavney Food & Drink Festival Bungay Castle www.visitwaveneyvalley. co.uk

15-16 Oct Suffolk Robin Hood Game & Country Show Trinity Park, Ipswich www.trinityparkevents.co.uk 23-Oct Suffolk Toddler & Baby Show Trinity Park, Ipswich www.trinityparkevents.co.uk 7-31 Oct Scaresville Kentwell Hall www.kentwell.co.uk NOVEMBER 1-Nov Walking Women Wells Beach www.holkham.co.uk/event/ walking-women 19-Nov Contemporary Christmas Craft and Design Fair The Old School, Long Melford 12-13 Nov Christmas Show Wherstead Park, Ipswich whersteadpark.co.uk 25 Nov - 24 Dec Christmas Shopping Deepdale Farm www.deepdalefarm.co.uk DECEMBER 2-Dec Christmas Market Deepdale Farm www.deepdalefarm.co.uk

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WEDDINGS VENUES There’s no better place to be for your special day Suffolk is the perfect location for A wedding!

Bedford Lodge Hotel The elegant white Bedford Lodge, with its romantic rose gardens, dates back to the 17th century. A beautiful venue for a civil wedding ceremony and wedding reception, the hotel offers a choice of three self-contained banqueting suites which can accommodate from 10 to 150 guests. There is also space for a marquee in the grounds. Bury Road, Newmarket. 01638 663175 www.bedfordlodgehotel. co.uk Bruisyard Hall Bruisyard Hall is a historic manor house which is available for weekend breaks, holidays and weddings. The Hall is in a beautiful position in the heart of the Suffolk countryside, providing wonderful settings for some stunning wedding photos. Staff can provide contact for details for caterers, marquee hire, florists and even a wedding planner should you wish, but then it is down to you to organise your perfect wedding day without the constraints often imposed by hotels.

Bruisyard, Woodbridge.

01728 639000 www.bruisyardhall.co.uk Butley Priory This luxury fairytale wedding venue, with a stunning gothic interior, was originally an Augustinian Monastery. The Priory is located between Rendlesham Forest 56

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and the Heritage Coast.

Both the Great Hall, and the smaller panelled Drawing Room are licensed to hold wedding ceremonies.

Overnight accommodation is also available.

01394 450046 www.butleypriory.co.uk Christchurch Mansion Christchurch Mansion is a red brick Tudor manor house set amid lovely 100 acre parkland, close to the centre of Ipswich. The picturesque grounds are perfect for wedding photography; the rooms of the manor are beautifully furnished in various period styles from Tudor to Victorian. Soane Street, Ipswich.

01473 433554 Glemham Hall This impressive red brick Elizabethan mansion is steeped in history and is the perfect setting for a traditional English country-style wedding. A choice of three locations in which to hold your wedding ceremony are available. Glemham Hall, Little Gleham, Woodbridge.

01728 746704 www.glemhamhall.co.uk Haughley Park Barn This 17th century, oakframed barn is surrounded by beautiful country house gardens. A private, exclusive venue located in central Suffolk, Haughley Park Barn is an idyllic setting for a wedding with civil ceremo-

ny, reception and evening party all in the one place.

Haughley Park, Stowmarket.

01359 240701. www.haugh leyparkbarn.co.uk High Lodge High Lodge is a beautiful venue on the Suffolk Coast, giving exclusive use to you and your guests at exceptional value and at a very high standard. Its professional team ensure that every detail of your wedding celebration is taken care of. High Lodge can provide the full wedding package, including civil ceremonies and, complete with onsite accommodation. High Lodge Wood, Hinton, Nr Darsham. 01986 784347 www.highlodge.co.uk Hintlesham Hall With its grand entrance to the estate and its sumptuous rooms, Hintlesham Hall is ideal for a picturesque wedding banquet in regal settings, whether you marry at the Hall or nearby, any day of the week. There’s a warm, relaxing and friendly ambience to this beautiful country house hotel, together with attentive staff and renowned cuisine.

The magnificent Salon, the Carolean Room with its stunning 17th century plasterwork ceiling and the intimate Justice room are licensed to accommodate civil ceremonies for up to 100, 50 and 20 guests respectively. Hintlesham Hall

Hotel, Hintlesham, Ipswich.

01473 652334 www.hintleshamhall.co.uk Hungarian Hall Events The wedding venue is set in landscaped surroundings.

The tastefully decorated Danube Suite can cater for up to 170 ceremony guests.

For the reception, the stunning marquee is suitable for 250 guests. The marquee has been carefully designed with a curved window, presenting guests with beautiful rural views throughout the day. The marquee can also be tailored to meet your individual colour schemes and décor ideas.

Pettistree, Woodbridge.

01394 460362. www.hun garianhallevents.co.uk Ipswich Town Hall and Corn Exchange Professionals at Ipswich Town Hall and Corn Exchange can help plan your event down to the very last detail. The prestigious grade II listed building in central Ipswich can cater for any size group from 50 to 1,000 guests. The rates are reasonable, and profession-

al and experienced staff are on-hand to help ensure an unforgettable and special day. Ipwsich. 01473 433465 Kentwell Hall There are few more romantic Houses than Kentwell, a completely moated, mellow redbrick Tudor mansion in a tranquil parkland setting.

It has an atmosphere in which brides and grooms feel comfortable and guests are always impressed.

All this with the striking detail of the Main Rooms, the organisational experience of Kentwell’s famed friendly staff and high quality catering combine to make Kentwell an unrivalled location. Specialising in bespoke weddings - tailored to each couple’s requirements. They can cover everything from a simple civil wedding ceremony to a grand departure accompanied by fireworks.

Long Melford. 01787 310207 www.kentwell.co.uk Le Talbooth For a wedding in the heart of Constable Country this family-run, luxury country house hotel is set in an

idyllic position beside the river Stour and provides fabulous menus, and rooms, to suit every style of wedding. The River Room offers space for larger parties, while the Weavers room is suitable for a small, intimate gathering. There’s also a marquee on the upper terrace, which caters for groups of up to 180 people.

Dedham. 01206 323150 www.milsomweddings.com Otley Hall Otley Hall, a grade I listed 16th century house situated in 10 acres of gardens.

Three rooms are licensed for civil ceremonies, two are suitable for 60 guests, and the Parlour holds 25 guests.

Wedding breakfasts are catered for in the Great Hall for up to 40 guests, or the Gosnold Suite for 55 guests.

Evening receptions for up to 80 guests. Otley.

01473 890264 www.otleyhall.co.uk Seckford Hall Seckford Hall is a splendid Tudor hotel near Suffolk’s Heritage coast, set among 34 acres of private countryeastlife.co.uk

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WEDDING VENUES also able to host a Humanist Service. If you decide to marry elsewhere, the venue can cater for wedding receptions only. South Elmham, Near Bungay, NR35 1NQ. 01986 782288 www.hallcatering.co.uk

side. It is licensed for civil ceremonies with an oak-panelled Great Hall, which can seat 30 people, or the Lakeside Suite for up to 120 guests, which overlooks the gardens. A glamorous marquee in the grounds is available for hire, with windows, French doors, carpet, chandeliers, and heaters to keep it warm whatever the weather. The Hall also caters for evening receptions for up to 140 guests, and there is Minstrel’s Gallery from which a small band can play. Woodbridge. 01394 385678. www.seckford.co.uk Somerleyton Hall and Gardens The hall and gardens at Somerleyton have been the setting for many magical weddings over the years.

Somerleyton Hall is the perfect venue for any wedding day. Its lavish architecture, 58

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fine staterooms, three ceremony rooms, and formal gardens designed by Price Albert’s favourite architect John Thomas, provide a perfect setting and ideal backdrop for a traditional country wedding. The wedding ceremony can take place in three different areas of the estate; the main hall, the gardens, and the walled garden. The gardens are also perfect venues for a wedding reception. Somerleyton Hall can cater for both small exclusive intimate weddings and large party weddings with 250 guests plus.

Lowestoft. 07460 400276 www.somerleyton.co.uk St Peters Hall St. Peter’s Hall and vast experience in both planning and management of your very special day. It is licensed for Civil Ceremonies and Partnerships and is

The Swan at Lavenham The Swan dates back to the 15th century when it played a key role in Lavenham’s wool trade. Today it is a quintessential English country hotel and restaurant, proud of its achievement of an AA four-star rating and two AA Rosettes. The Swan offers a full package of wedding assistance, with floral arrangements, wedding cakes made to order, a Master of Ceremonies and a Honeymoon Suite for after the big event.

Lavenham. 01787 247477 www.theswanatlavenham. co.uk Thorpeness Country Club The Thorpeness Country Club is a magical wedding location, just a pebble’s throw from the beach. The hotel offers a selection of menus and dishes, all of which are individually priced, allowing you the flexibility to create a bespoke menu and package to suit your requirements.

You may wish to give your wedding a seaside theme, or simply opt for something traditional; the choice is yours. 01728 452176. www.thorpenesscountryclub. co.uk Trinity Park This contemporary setting

for a wedding sits amid 300 acres of beautiful landscaped grounds, and has a stunning courtyard garden. The venue holds a license for civil marriages and partnership ceremonies, and also offers the services of a wedding coordinator.

The Park can comfortably accomodate up to 500 guests for a wedding breakfast, and more intimate spaces can be created for smaller wedding parties. Ipswich.

01473 707119. www.trinityparkevents. co.uk Wantisden Valley Wantisden Valley is able to provide a venue for civil ceremonies and receptions in a beautiful and very private location in Suffolk. There are several buildings available from an 18th Century thatched cottage to a fully carpeted brick and flint barn providing seating from 10 to over 300 guests. A great location on the Heritage Coast for weddings ceremonies and receptions. Picturesque areas outside are ideal for photographs on summer days. Wantisden, Woodbridge.

01394 459995 www.wantisden.co.uk Woodhall Manor A private country house made available for business and leisure purposes. The manor is

an exceptional place to do business, away from it all on the Suffolk Heritage Coast, yet just two hours from London. The manor is an ideal venue for weddings and private parties.

With nine acres of English country gardens you will be spoilt for choice with photographic backdrops and beautiful settings. The banqueting suite can seat 130 for a sit-down meal and up to 200 if a less formal buffet menu is preferred.

Smaller parties can opt for a more intimate setting, dining in the manor itself. Larger celebrations can be accommodated in marquees in the grounds.

01394 411288. www.woodhallmanor.co.uk Ufford Park Ufford Park Hotel, Golf and Spa is set in a tranquil 120 acres of historic Suffolk parkland. The hotel holds a civil wedding licence and offers a choice of beautifully decorated modern function rooms that can accommodate small gatherings or large parties. Prior to the big day there are also the golf, spa and health club facilities to enjoy; perfect for hen parties and stag weekends. A choice of packages are available inlcuding Afternoon Tea Weddings from Friday to Sunday. Melton, Woodbridge.

01394 383555 www.uffordpark.co.uk

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www.kentwell.co.uk

KENTWELL HALL • LONG MELFORD • SUFFOLK CO10 9BA 01787 310207 • enquiries@kentwell.co.uk

Tudor Eastertide - Fri 25 March to Sun 3 April Tudor May Day - Sat 30 April to Mon 2 May Thru The Ages Multi-Period - Sat 28 May to Fri 3 Jun Tudor Kentwell 1593 - Sats & Suns 25 Jun to 3 Jul Open Air Theatre and Opera - 29 Jul to 13 Aug Magic Sat 23 & Sun 24 Jul • WWI - Sat 6 & Sun 7 Aug Tudor High Summer - Sat 20 to Mon 29 Aug Tudor Michaelmas - Sat 24 & Sun 25 Sep Dickensian Christmas - Sats & Suns 10 to 18 Dec 2016 Suffolk Guide (EastLife)_Layout 1 18/02/2016 16:26 Page 1

Celebrations at Ufford Park Woodbridge There really shouldn't have to be a reason to get together with friends and family.

From a baby shower to the biggest of birthdays, whatever the occasion our dedicated team at Ufford Park look forward to helping you make it everything you want it to be.

t 0844 499 1631 w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1QW

PLACES TO STAY Visitors to Suffolk are spoilt for choice when it comes to finding a great place to stay. Here is just a glimpse of the beautiful accommodation available for overnight stays and weekend getaways...

HOTELS Bedford Lodge Hotel Four-star country house hotel where traditional charm meets contemporary chic. Newmarket.

01638 663175 www.bedfordlodgehotel. co.uk The Brudenell With 44 rooms, the fresh looking Aldeburgh hotel offers either spectacular views of the sea or of the River Alde and marshland.

There’s a superb restaurant that overlooks the sea and a beach terrace. Aldeburgh 01728 452071 www.brudenellhotel.co.uk The Bildeston Crown A stylishly renovated 15th century timber framed former coaching inn. Each of the Bildeston Crown’s 12 en-suite double rooms are uniquely decorated.

Bildeston. 01449 740510 www.thebildestoncrown.com The Angel Hotel Georgian, ivy-clad four-star luxury hotel and restaurant that is a landmark building in the centre of town. A curious contrast of contemporary design with touches of exotic grandeur. Dining here is a culinary treat.

Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds.

01284 714000 www.theangel.co.uk

The Crown Inn This boutique hotel has 11 stylish luxury en-suite bedrooms, all individually designed and furnished.

Stoke By Nayland.

01206 262001 www.crowninn.net The Ship at Dunwich Once a haunt for smugglers, you will now find a traditional coastal inn with traditionally furnished bedrooms.

01728 648219 www.shipatdunwich.co.uk Thorpeness Hotel A five-minute walk from the beach, the hacienda style three-star Thorpeness Hotel is a great spot for all who come to enjoy the golf, the Meare boating lake, tennis and al fresco dining on the terrace. Thorpeness.

01728 452176 www.thorpeness.co.uk The Westleton Crown Traditional coaching inn is perfectly situated for exploring the delights of the Suffolk Heritage Coast.

01728 648777 www.westletoncrown.co.uk The Swan at Lavenham A charming 15th century country hotel complete with rich furnishings, inglenook fireplaces and 45 beautifully decorated en-suite bedrooms. There is the new

addition of Weavers House Spa. Lavenham.

01787 247477. www.theswanatlavenham.co.uk Kesgrave Hall The Hotel offers 23 luxury boutique bedrooms.

Kesgrave. 01473 333741 www.milsomhotels.com Sutherland House A boutique hotel on Southwold’s High Street blending medieval charm with contemporary furnishings.

Southwold. 01502 724544 www.sutherlandhouse.co.uk Hintlesham Hall Offering sumptuous comfort, this four-star hotel is a classically decorated Elizabethan Manor House set in 175 acres of rolling countryside. The 32 bedrooms and suites are of varying sizes and styles.

Guests can enjoy the health club and pool, and treat themselves to a range of health and beauty treatments. Hintlesham.

01473 652334. www.hintleshamhall.com The Swan Hotel The fine looking Swan Hotel on Southwold’s market place has 42 bedrooms.

Southwold. 01502 722186 www.adnams.co.uk/hotels

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PLACES TO STAY Wentworth Hotel Aldeburgh’s only truly independent hotel, The Wentworth Hotel is a 35-bedroom hotel run by the Pritt family since 1920.

Situated in the bustling seaside town of Aldeburgh the hotel is a stone’s throw from the beach. Spacious lounges and a snug bar offer comfortable spaces to enjoy a more informal meal or afternoon tea, have a pre-dinner drink, or relax with a coffee after the meal.

The hotel has two gardens – a Bar Terrace and the Tiffany Garden. Both have seaviews and are ideal for summer time. In winter the hotel has three open fires roaring in the lounges and bar, enabling comfort at any time of the year. Aldeburgh.

01728 452312. www.went worth-aldeburgh.com Angel Hotel This attractive pub hotel offers eight well-equipped en-suite bedrooms.

Lavenham. 01787 247388 www.theangellavenham. co.uk The Olde Bull Inn Award-winning accommodation. Barton Mills, Bury St Edmunds. 01638 711001 www.bullinn-bartonmills.com Riverside House Hotel Despite undergoing a complete renovation, this 18th century building on the picturesque banks of the river Lark has maintained its beautiful period features and is now bursting with a contemporary, modern charm. Two comfortable, 62

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informal bar areas, plus the highly regarded Riverside Terrace Restaurant.

Mildenhall. 01638 717274 www.theriversidehousehotel. co.uk Salthouse Harbour Hotel Four-star luxury boutique hotel on Ipswich quay.

Ipswich. 01473 226789 www.salthouseharbour.co.uk White Lion Hotel A traditional beachfront hotel. Guests can enjoy fresh seafood from the Brasserie Bleue and some of the rooms have far-reaching sea views. Aldeburgh. 01728 452720. www.whitelion.co.uk The Crown and Castle Country house hotel in the pretty coastal village of Orford, with 21 bedrooms and a lively bistro, the Trinity, which serves great food.

Orford. 01394 450205 www.crownandcastle.co.uk Satis House Hotel 18th Century Grade II listed country house set in three acres of parkland. sample fine British cuisine in the modern English restaurant.

Saxmundham. 01728 668418 www.satishouse.co.uk Randolph Hotel A lovely hotel in the village of Reydon, just a 15 minutes’ walk from the heart of Southwold. They even have a classic Southwold beach hut you can hire on a weekly basis.

Reydon. 01502 723603 www.therandolph.co.uk

Black Lion Hotel A privately owned village hotel with 10 lovely rooms and great food in the award-winning restaurant.

Long Melford. 01787 312356 www.blacklionhotel.net PARKS & CARAVANS Badwell Ash Holiday Lodges Cosy Scandinavian timber lodges. Badwell Ash. 01359 258444. www. badwellashlodges.co.uk Beach View Holiday Park Caravans and camping, and self-catering lodges right beside the beach.

Sizewell Common. 01728 830724. www.beachviewhol idaypark.co.uk Broadland Holiday Village Caravans and lodges close to one of the prettiest of the Broads. Oulton Broad.

01502 573033 www.broadlandvillage.co.uk Carlton Meres Country Park Leisure lodges and touring caravan pitches dotted around a well-stocked fishing lake. Saxmundham 01728 603344 www.fellstead.com Broadland Sands Award-winning caravan holiday park. Corton 0843 1787070 www.broadlandsands.co.uk High Lodge Self-catering comfortable and cosy lodges for up to six. Darsham.

01986 784347 www.highlodge.co.uk

PLACES TO STAY

Image credit: TA Hotel Collection

Run Cottage Touring Park Camp amid wildlife in this peaceful caravan touring park on the Heritage Coast, close to the market town of Woodbridge. Open all year round. Hollesley.

01394 411309 www.run-cottage.co.uk Suffolk Escape Four new luxury, self-catering log cabins with hot tubs set in an idyllic, rural retreat in the heart of the Suffolk countryside. Hintlesham.

01473 652149. www.suffolkescape.co.uk COTTAGES & FARMS Heritage Hideaways Holiday Cottages A superb collection of holiday cottages in some of Suffolk’s iconic seaside towns and surrounding villages, including Southwold, Aldeburgh and Thorpeness. 01502 322405 www.heritagehideaways.com

The Old Mill Nearly a thousand years old, the Old Mill on the River Deben overlooks its own golf course, which is free for guests. This charming 12th Century Mill provides spacious comfortable accommodation for up to 12 people. Glevering Mill.

07568 388662 www.gleveringmill.co.uk Swefflinwg Hall Farm 17th century farm house on a working farm with bed & breakfast. Holiday cottages also available.

01728 663644 www.swefflinghallfarm.co.uk Valley Farm Vineyards Guests to Valley Farm can opt for the self-catering cottage (sleeps 8-10) or bed and breakfast at the farmhouse. Wisset.

01986 785535. www.valleyfarmvineyards. co.uk

Rumburgh Farm Two self-catering lodges, ideally located for exploring the region.

Rumburgh. 01986 781351. www.rumburghfarm.co.uk GUEST HOUSES/B&B Drinkstone Park Award-winning B&B set in three acres of beautiful gardens. Drinkstone, Bury St Edmunds. 01359 272513 www.drinkstonepark.co.uk The Norfolk Guest House Visit Britain four-star and Silver Award-winning; 25 metres from the beach.

Felixstowe. 01394 283160 www.thenorfolk.com Ocean House Beautifully decorated Victorian guest house, a stone’s throw from Aldeburgh’s beach and High Street. 01728 452094 www.oceanhousealdeburgh. co.uk eastlife.co.uk

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Luxury Lakeside Log Cabins This quiet, hideaway in the countryside is perfect for a relaxing self catering break for couples or groups of friends.

The four, adults only, log cabins each feature two large stylish en-suite bedrooms, hot tubs and a dining deck over the water. Ideally located for golf, walking, cycling, trips to Constable country and the stunning Suffolk coast.

Hintlesham, Ipswich, Suffolk IP8 3NX | 01473 652149 | www.suffolkescape.co.uk Peace & Tranquillity Tranquility|| Hot HotTubs Tubs| | Dining Dining Over Water | Wood Stoves | Spa Treatments | Adults Only Peace & Over Water | Wood Stoves | Spa Treatments | Food Experiences

INFORMATION

INFORMATION

Tourist Information Centres & other useful contacts Visitors are advised to check opening hours locally as times may be seasonal and some may close at the weekends.

Aldeburgh 152 High Street 01728 453637

Flatford Flatford lane 01206 299460

Lowestoft East Point Pavilion 01502 533600

Sudbury Sudbury Library 01787 881320

Brandon 31 High Street 01842 812085

Hadleigh Hadleigh Library 01473 823778

Newmarket The Guineas Centre 01638 719749

Woodbridge Station Buildings 01394 382240

Bury St Edmunds 6 Angel Hill 01284 764667

Ipswich St Stephen’s Lane 01473 258070

Southwold 7 Childs Yard 01502 724729

Felixstowe 91 Undercliff Road 01394 276770

Lavenham Lady Street 01787 248207

Stowmarket Crowe Street 01449 676800

For more local guidance visit www.visitsuffolk.com

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USEFUL WEBSITES discoversuffolk.org.uk westsuffolk.gov.uk suffolkcoastal.gov.uk suffolk.gov.uk choosewoodbridge.co.uk

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Great days out in Suffolk Experience a day out with a difference at the historic sites of Framlingham Castle and Orford Castle.

The English Heritage Trust is a charity, no. 1140351, and a company, no. 07447221, registered in England.

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