Aboutfram6 for web

about fram

Issue Six Look no further than aboutfram, the local magazine that packs a Suffolk punch!

THE WHITE HORSE RENDHAM FREEHOUSE

A traditional village pub www.whitehorserendham.co.uk 01728 663497

contents who’s about out & about about style about you

4 Managing his estate

34 Forging the future

Chris Clarke accepts our offer and shares his particulars

Sparks fly as blacksmith John Ball tells us about the irons in his fire

6 Out and about

38 Summer lovin’

A round up of local events

It’s all happening way too fast in Sarah-Jane Page’s garden

12 Get set for summer Geraldine Clarke is loving the glam sporty look this season

14 Summer tool kit Everything you need for a beautiful sun-kissed look

18 Out on a wing Dating back to the 16th century, Crow’s Hall still stands proud

22 Get the look From vintage to contemporary and back again in our summer emporium

24 about town We bring you the latest news about town

28 Suffolk’s best kept secret We uncover the delights of Secret Meadows: luxury glamping amongst wildflower meadows and ancient oaks

42 All puffed up

about interiors

about town about the land

Introducing Vij Griew’s taste sensation, The Curry Puff: all the way from the streets of Malaysia to the markets of Suffolk

about design

46 New faces, changing places, and turning tables

about gardens

It’s all change in our pubs and restaurants this season

50 about taste A Zingy Thai Salad by Vij Griew to refresh and revive your taste buds

54 Panoramic perfection A circular walk around the pretty village of Marlesford

about food about taste round & about

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just the three of us... about us

Here comes summer! Issue 6 of aboutfram is packed with fabulous fashions, beautiful blooms and lovely local flavours.

Editorial Kathy Churchill Sales Sarah Clarke

aboutmedia info@aboutmedia.co.uk 01728 723138 www.aboutmedia.co.uk

a bit about them...

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Sarah-Jane Page A tutor of English and Spanish and writer of fiction.

Gardening inspires her. about gardens pg 38

Dominic Whiten Coastal Creative Photography is a small, friendly business based near the Suffolk coast. about design pg 34, about food pg 42, emporium pages

Rufus Owen Rufus Owen is an experienced property and interiors photographer based in Suffolk. who’s about pg 4 rufus@rufusowen.com M: 07891 937167

M: 07748 765582

07884 433385 www.ferrar.co.uk

!e N I W cruis s

Geraldine Clarke A history teacher with a passion for fashion. about style pg 12

www.coastalcreativephotography.co.uk

Design Ferrar Design kerry@ferrar.co.uk

er er a riv the riv ard g bo alon ffolk a W2 W u of S istoric ssel. an h den ve woo ge 45 pa

Foxwood About Fram full page June 2015_Layout 1 05/05/2015 12:17 Page 1

Foxwood is an established local family business offering an extensive range of ceramic, porcelain, glass and natural stone wall and floor tiles. Our showroom has a comprehensive display with the majority of products being exclusive in our region with both contemporary and traditional ranges to suit all budgets.

As well as our quality tiles we have wonderful bathroom products on display including baths, basins, fitted furniture, showers, taps and designer radiators.

Visit our showroom 36–38 Woodbridge Road (A1214), Rushmere St Andrew, Ipswich.

T: 01473 617050 E: info@foxwoodceramics.co.uk

www.foxwoodceramics.co.uk 3

who’s about

Managing his estate Well-proportioned with lovely symmetrical features: we meet Chris Clarke, distinguished country gent and founding partner of Clarke & Simpson, which is based right here in Framlingham.

Chris, a well-respected local figure, can often be seen in and around Framlingham, down at the firm’s auction rooms at Campsey Ashe or, in his spare time, on the golf course at Aldeburgh. His family has a long association with this corner of Suffolk; his great grandfather set up the grain merchant business E.G. Clarke & Sons whose premises was situated along Station Road; the old buildings only recently being pulled down to make space for a new housing development. Whilst his father Geoffrey, who joined the family firm in 1933, was one of the few surviving members of 4

the 4th Suffolk Regiment, who suffered the horrors of the infamous Death Railway during the Second World War. Born in Saxtead, Chris was the youngest of four, and although he was away at school, has happy memories of growing up here.

He then attended the Royal Agricultural College in Cirencester, and after qualifying returned to Suffolk to join Spear & Sons, a family firm of estate agents based in Wickham Market, whom he had worked for whilst still a student, helping out at the Monday auctions. The firm merged with Abbotts, and in 1989, although Chris had

who’s about

risen to the position of Managing Director, he made the decision to go it alone, joining forces with Mike Simpson to form Clarke & Simpson. “We set up our new office in Framlingham with just two members of staff. We now have over fifty employees, but Audrey, my PA, is still with me after all these years.”

Suffolk born and bred, Chris has a deep love for the county, but it has to be said that he travelled a very long way to find a wife.

After college he decided to take a year out, and it was whilst working as a jackeroo on a sheep farm in Australia that he first met his future wife Fay. It was actually her family’s farm, and although Chris was there for nine months they only met once, as during this time she was working in London as a nurse. “I must be one of the few men who got to know his in-laws before he met his wife!” In the Spring of 1975 their

paths crossed again, this time in London, and within the year they were married.

Chris feels extremely fortunate that their two children, Lucy and Stuart, have chosen to live locally, allowing them to enjoy a house full of grandchildren at the weekends. Stuart joined Clarke & Simpson in 2005, the same year that Mike Simpson stepped down, and is now one of the firm’s six partners, and with the support of this team Chris has continued to see the company grow in reputation and professionalism. He was particularly delighted when they were offered the chance to purchase the auction rooms, as the Saturday viewings and Monday sales are not just a time-honoured tradition close to the hearts of many local people, but also to Chris himself, as this is where it all started for him over 40 years ago. www.clarkeandsimpson.co.uk 5

out & about

June 6th-7th Suffolk Open Studios Every weekend in June over 125 artists will open up their homes and studios for you to enjoy. For details

12th-28th Aldeburgh Festival The world’s leading musicians converge on the Suffolk coast for one of the UK’s leading classical music festivals.

20th Claire Weston in Recital St Michael’s Church, Fram at 7pm. Tkts from Stationers or Hall Farm Butchers.

www.suffolkopenstudios.org

13th Opera in the Barn Crow’s Hall, Debenham once again hosts the London Festival Opera as they perform TOSCA. Gates open at 4pm.

Al Fresco BBQ and Jazz in the Nave A summer evening of sausages and saxophones at Brundish Church. Tickets from 01728 628063 Starts 7pm.

6th One Night in Greece An evening of authentic Greek entertainment with music, dancing and singing. White Lion Hotel, Aldeburgh. 7pm.

7th Truly Vintage Wedding Fair Ideas for a vintageinspired wedding at Glemham Hall.

10am to 4pm.

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17th Einse Brise for 111 cyclists Join the last 1km of the Women’s Cycle Tour into Aldeburgh. Just take a bike, helmet and bell or whistle! Call 01394 444652 to book.

21st Woodbridge Regatta.

Yacht racing, dinghy races, single oar sculling and raft races. Starts at 12 noon at the Songs of Praise Bandstand, Woodbridge.

24th-4th July Southwold Arts Festival Enjoy concerts, plays, talks, exhibitions, poetry and literature.

27th-28th Magna Carta The Great Charter.

How did King John get it so utterly and spectacularly wrong?

Framlingham Castle.

11am to 5pm.

Organised by English Heritage

27th Family Fun Day Archery, footgolf, 4X4 experience and clay shooting.

High Lodge Darsham 11am to 3:30pm.

out & about

July 3rd-5th Maverick Festival A long weekend of fine Americana music, great local food and drink on the edge of the River Deben.

5th Suffolk Fire Ride A brand new cycling event in aid of the Fire Fighters Charity.

30/60/100 mile routes.

Eye Fire Station.

16th-19th Latitude Festival Voted the UK’s best festival for families, there’s a host of events and activities for the all ages.

www.maverickfestival.co.uk

www.suffolkfireride.co.uk

www.latitudefestival.com

4th Music by the Sea The greatest show on the coast is back; raising money for charity, with live acts and bands showcasing ‘Music through the Decades’. Aldeburgh seafront from 5pm.

11th Catwalk with a Cause Fashion Show and Shopping Evening in aid of CLIC Sargent.

Brandeston Village Hall 6:30pm. Tickets from 07734 431908

18th Framlingham Horse Show One of the oldest and most traditional horse shows in Suffolk.

Castle Meadow, Framlingham Castle.

11th-12th PettaFiesta A weekend of lovely food, people, outdoor film and entertainment set in grounds of Laffit’s Hall, Pettaugh.

27th-31st Heroes and Villains Deadly enemies and bitter battles, choose your side and start your training as you discover the castle’s bloody history with the Magna Carta. Framlingham Castle. 11am to 5pm Organised by English Heritage

29th-31st Festival of Golf Hosted by Thorpeness Golf Course and Hotel, with competitions and coaching clinics.

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AILY D G IN IV R R A K C O T NEW S IT’S NOT JUST ANTIQUES

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21st, 22nd & 23rd August 2015 at Glemham Hall, Suffolk A fresh approach to a timeless tradition With music from

The Unthanks • False Lights Peatbog Faeries • The Young’uns Martin Carthy • Neil Innes Josienne Clarke & Ben Walker & over 100 more acts on Sunset, Broad Roots, Garden and Soapbox stages

An eclectic mix of contemporary and traditional music, song, dance, workshops, storytelling, poetry, art and heritage craft skills for all all ages.

Locally produced festival fare from

The Imagined Suffolk Food Village & lashings of real ale

www.folkeast.co.uk FolkEast Festival 21-23 August

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Hit the fairways in our fabulous festival of golf www.thorpeness.co.uk/golf-festival

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about style 2

Get set for summer

Fresh florals, bold stripes and essential accessories are perfect for early summer fashion.

1. Stylish overnight bag Two Peas £48 (range of colours) 2. Qudo swappable rings Ruby Tyger from £16

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3. Colourful tasselled scarf Ruby Tyger £22 4. Reversible skirt White Stuff at Bootiki £47.50

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5. Summer sports jacket Man About Town £165 6. Fabulous summer sneakers www.joules.com John Self £28

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about style

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7. Stackers jewellery boxes 9.2.5 From £19.50

8. Summer shirt selection Man About Town £49.95 9. Stripy Dress

by Karen Cole Darcy B £175

10. Pretty floral shirt Ruby Tyger £35 11. Gorgeous Ruby Shoos Impulse £45 12. Stylish handmade clutch Sew Hazy £18

Stockists see page 56

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Handbags & gladrags This is a dangerous article for me to write on a regular basis.

The reason being that I have to do some personal research, which in turn means that I spy too many gorgeous items that I just feel I must have.

about style

The combo of sport and glamour in some summer footwear is nearly too much for me to cope with. I am just loving the sparkles and comfort featured in gladiator sandals and canvas pumps. They are also featured in shades I truly love, such as coffee, beige and marble grey; all of which can be worn with anything, including the bold patterns, spots and stripes that seem to be coming out of the woodwork. I have to admit that I do find flowered patterns hard to wear but I have solved this problem by recognising that a small clutch bag or shoes in said design is just enough to get me by.

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1. White Stuff similar available from Bootiki 2. Beautiful wedding shoes Lavender & Jude ÂŁ99 3. Silk chiffon scarves Isabella Singleton From ÂŁ59 12

Speaking of patterns, I have to mention my most favourite recent purchase: flared from the knee, black and white trousers (oh, so divine!) to be worn with the high heels you know that I adore. 1970s platforms and styles continue to feature this season, including wonderful stacked sandals, fabulous jumpsuits and quite a lot of bling. This then gives one a marvellous excuse to wear bold, bright retro make-up to match: heavy on the eyeliner and over the top with the eye shadow; perfect for summer parties.

Bring it on!

Geraldine Clarke

Bathsheba June 15 qtr_Layout 1 09/05/2015 16:41 Page 1

Summer prep package Menswear and Formal Hire OPEN WEEKEND SAT 27TH & SUN 28TH JUNE Help us celebrate our first year in business with drinks, nibbles and great offers in store.

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www.rubytyger.co.uk 13

Beauty bloom

about you

Aveda’s new limited edition make-up range, Rare Bloom, is all about pretty pastels, shimmering pinks and beautiful eyes. Isn’t it time you gave yourself a treat and updated your look this season.

Prices from £12.50 Available from Carley Hill Hair

Set the tone

Summer tool kit

Give yourself a head start this summer with a professional LDN Skins spray tan for only £25, or take home a bottle of their Gradual Tan Lotion to create your own natural looking tan. £14.00 Available at The Retreat, Framlingham.

Big hair day Always wanted that full sun tousled hair look? Well now you can with Aveda’s new Thickening Tonic that promises to thicken hair with just one use. £19.00 Available from Carley Hill Hair

Soothing saviours These moisturising heroes can really help anyone suffering from dry sensitive skin. Aveeno Moisturising Cream soothes and restores, and is suitable for babies from 3 months who may be prone to eczema. £6.80 Dermalex Eczema Cream for Babies and Children offers a steroid free solution to the relief of eczema. £11.99 Both available from Framlingham Pharmacy

Travel treats Thinking of a weekend away to celebrate early summer?

Then make sure you pack this delicious Pomegranate, Argan & Grapeseed trio from Crabtree & Evelyn. £12.50 Available from Framlingham Pharmacy

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Country Vision Opticians in Framlingham

William Morris Calvin Klein non-prescriptio n/prescription lenses Designer Sunglas ses, from £89!

Pop in and find the perfect pair of shades for this summer T 01728 621250 Mon / Tues / Thurs / Fri 9.00 - 5.30 Wed / Sat 9.00 - 1.00

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Charnwood Milling Co Ltd

Property to shout about Feeds for all animals From alpacas to zebras!

Saxtead Rd, Framlingham IP13 9PT T 01728 622300 E feeds@charnwood-milling.co.uk www.charnwoodmilling.co.uk

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about interiors

Out on a wing Set in an elevated position, Crow’s Hall has a birds-eye view of the gently rolling countryside that surrounds it. Impressive in stature and scale, it is hard to believe that this 16th century moated hall solely represents the north wing of what must have originally been a magnificent stately pile.

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about interiors

You approach via an avenue of ancient oaks, its deep verges a mass of buttercups, cowslips and cow parsley, and it is hard not to be instantly swept into the imaginings of a Philippa Gregory novel. But as I walk over the bridge, sadly, the only white charger to greet me is Molly, Caroline Spurrier’s faithful greyhound. Stepping into the courtyard I catch of glimpse of the beautiful landscaped gardens for which Crow’s Hall is well known and am on the point of taking a stroll when a shout from the kitchen beckons me inside.

Over tea and shortbread Caroline tells me a little more about the history of the house.

It is believed that the original manor may have been built as far back as the 13th century or even earlier, but it is almost certain that this remaining wing was built

by Sir Charles Framlingham to celebrate

his wedding in 1559. Over the next hundred years the great hall and service wing to the south fell into disrepair, and in around 1700 were demolished, leaving what is now Crow’s Hall as a tantalising hint of what went before. Within the grounds there still stands a wonderful 16th century dovecote, and to the south, an amazing Tudor barn that Caroline hires out for weddings; a more fairy tale setting is hard to imagine!

Caroline bought Crow’s Hall in 2005, admitting that she wasn’t entirely smitten at first; it was only after thoughts of the house repeatedly came back to haunt her that she realised she has found something really rather special. With the help of Nicholas Jacobs Architects, she completely renovated and updated the whole building, and it remains a house of grand proportions where stately reception rooms boast 19

about interiors

enormous open fireplaces; deep window seats are framed by floor to ceiling velvet curtains; and hallways are lined with beautiful oak panelling. Along a flag stone hallway an unusual balustrade box staircase leads to the floors above; its wide oak boards worn silver with time.

On the first floor there are three bedrooms, including two charming guest rooms that would have once been part of the original dining chamber, and underfoot the hammered square nail tops can still be seen. And right at the top, there is a gorgeous suite where the bride is invited to stay the night before her wedding day.

This room commands the most breathtaking view out across the stunning gardens, and from our lofty vantage point we can clearly see its symmetrical design.

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They were laid out and designed by awardwinning garden designer Lady Tollemache and, as we take a turn around the grounds, I am enchanted by their beauty.

In the walled courtyard, banks of fragrant lavender encircle a sculpture of two otters chasing an elusive trout and beds of expansive euphorbia form the perfect backdrop for statuesque flag irises, whilst to the front, perfectly clipped box hedging contains an inspired mix of foxgloves, lupins, delphiniums and alliums. And, as we stand and look out over the reflections of the moat to the gentle contours of the Deben valley beyond, I would agree that Crow’s Hall is really rather special. www.crows-hall.com Images courtesy of Val Corbett, Rachel Chesman and Fisher Hart

MARK BARBER Painter & Decorator Painting Coving Wallpapering Exterior Work Interior Work

30 Years Experience Period Properties mark.barber30@yahoo.com

MOAT FARM FLOWERS BEAUTIFUL FRESH FLOWERS GROWN ON OUR FARM IN DENNINGTON WEDDINGS, PARTIES AND BOUQUETS OR SIMPLY FLOWERS FOR YOU TO ARRANGE

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Esme’s House offer a range of high quality interior design products, we also offer a range of exciting creative workshops.

Friendly Design Service Available Bespoke Curtains, Blinds, Soft furnishings, poles and Shades

Fabric Linwood Vanessa Arbuthnott Romo Voyage Susie Watson Mini Moderns Sarah Hardaker

Esme’s House Bridge Street, Framlingham, IP13 9AJ Tel: 01728 724 224 Open 10am – 4pm Monday to Saturday

The Old Works, Crown & Anchor Lane, Framlingham, IP13 9BL

www.fireplaceframlingham.co.uk

01728 621 212

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about interiors

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Get the look 1. Pretty china trio Dix-Sept Antiques £16.50 2. Oil on canvas by Jacqueline Cotton Carley’s Yard £90 3. Vintage blue enamel churn Carley’s Yard £25

4. Blue wax candle £4.20 Scallop dish £2.25 Ruby Tyger 5. White breakfast cups Dix-Sept Antiques £39 for a set of 5 6. Lovely floral cushion Sew Hazy £20

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7. Feather eiderdown Catherine Haddon at Two Peas £88

about interiors

7 8. Retro children’s chairs Homestead Store £40

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An eclectic assortment of antique treasures available from Theatre Antiques

10. Loveramics glass mug with porcelain infuser Leo’s Deli £23

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Waterloo, Waterloo!

about town

Local girl Isabella Singleton is a young textile designer whose stunning designs are already making quite an impression in the fashion world. The great-great-greatgreat granddaughter of Lord Uxbridge, later the first Marquess of Angelsey; the military commander who famously exclaimed to the Duke of Wellington, ‘By God Sir, I’ve lost my leg!’, she is currently raising money for a charity called The Household Cavalry with a scarf specifically designed to commemorate those that fought in the Battle of Waterloo. www.isabellasingletondesign.com

Magna Carta mania!

Ten members of The Friends of Framlingham library were recently invited to attend a reception at The Mansion House to meet the Lord Mayor of London.

2015 is the 800th anniversary of the signing of the Magna Carta, and to celebrate locally, the library has a copy of the British Library’s Magna Carta on display for all to see – pop in if you’re passing.

Also, Becky at Huntingfield Estates is raffling one of the special uncirculated coins which have been struck by the Royal Mint. It comes in a card slip case which folds out telling the story of the Magna Carta.

Tickets are just 50p and the draw will take place on the 14/15th June celebratory weekend, with proceeds going to the Magna Carta Trust.

All aboard for the Station House Festival with an exhibition of model railways and engineering displays, plus a raillwayana auction sale to help raise funds for the Station House regeneration at Campsea Ashe.

Saturday 13th June, 10am-5pm Clarke & Simpson auction centre With indoor model layouts including some of the stations on the East Suffolk Line, outdoor ride-ons, displays of electric and steam driven engines, and plenty more, it will be an opportunity for all ages to soak up the fun and sun!

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Food for thought When we at aboutfram speak to local businesses, we often comment on the breadth and diversity of industry apparent, and this is certainly about about the case when it comes to interiors town Charnwood Milling.

The Oliver Hayward Playbarn has recently opened just outside Wickham Market. Aimed at toddlers to 7 year olds, it features an indoor soft play area and outdoor area, as well as a stylish cafĂŠ, serving fresh drinks and snacks in very comfortable surroundings.

Set up by local farmer Guy Hayward in memory of his two children Oliver and Star, it is open Friday mornings and all day Saturdays and Sundays.

This fantastic local enterprise supplies animal feed for a huge and diverse number of breeds; from domestic to the more exotic species, such as zebra and ostrich. They also produce black rhino feed, and such is its success that they’ve now added white rhino feed, both of which are shipped worldwide to support the efforts of those protecting both species.

Who would have thought it?

www.oliverhaywardplaybarn.co.uk

The team at Greener Fram has won another Greenest County Award. This time it was the award for Waste and Recycling, and was presented by Chris Packham at Snape Maltings in April.

Photo by Andy Abbott, courtesy of the EADT 25

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Life

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Land

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Business

Come rain or shine We’re with you every step We all need legal help from time to time and our friendly solicitors are on hand to advise you on a host of matters. For family and business services through to making your will, when you come to Barker Gotelee, we’ll put together a team of specialists that’s a true fit for your situation.

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about the land

Suffolk’s best kept secret

One sunny Saturday in May I took the family on a trip down the leafy lanes of Suffolk to discover Secret Meadows; a luxury glamping site set within 115 acres of ancient pastures and wildflower meadows that has remained unchanged for generations.

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about the land

It is owned and managed by The Sinfield Nature Conservation Trust, a local charity whose main objective is to conserve and protect both our wildlife and historic nature reserves. We are greeted by Amanda Daniel, one of the trust’s founders, and together with her two year old grandson Lochlan, are taken on a tour of the site.

After a quick peek at the pantry – an honesty shop for campers which is stocked daily with a wonderful selection of fresh local produce by Grange Farm Shop, Hasketon – we head with some excitement towards one of the six safari-style tents.

from the dresser; apple crates stamped with ‘Secret Meadows’ serve as useful storage units; and a large dining table and assortment of chairs beckon us to take a seat with the promise of a hearty candlelit supper. The sleeping arrangements have my girls arguing over who will have the built-in cabin bed or the bunk beds not if, but when we come to stay, whilst I would be quite happy tucked up in the four poster with just a lantern to read by. And, at the back of the tent with an unexpected nod to civility, there is also a flushing loo and hot water shower.

Tucked discretely in against the hedgerow, each tent comes fully equipped with a proper kitchen and wood-burning range cooker; not a plastic mug or blow-up mattress in sight. This is luxury camping: willow pattern crockery hangs neatly

As well as the luxury tents you can also book the impossibly romantic Gypsy’s Rest, which consists of a hand-crafted gypsy caravan and a vintage-style shepherd’s hut, both with double beds and cosy woodburning stoves. Wandering back through 29

about the land

the meadow we see guests enjoying lunch outside on the decking, reading in their hammocks, or offering words of encouragement to their hens in the hope of a freshly laid egg for breakfast, and you sense that the pace of life has slowed a little. Suddenly Lochlan spots a fairy ring, and before we know it we are all stood together at its centre making a wish and grinning with a shared enthusiasm for childhood pleasures.

We drop Lochlan with his parents, Charlotte and Ross, who are both trustees of Sinfield and manage the day to day running of Secret Meadows, and the herd of rare British White cattle that are used for conservation grazing. Before visiting some of the species rich wildflower meadows, Amanda takes us on a detour to visit the 7-circuit turf labyrinth; a place 30

you go to find yourself and a powerful tool in meditation and healing. As if by magic, as soon as we step inside the circle a nightingale bursts into song and, with the last of the apple blossom drifting down around us, it is hard not to be touched by this deeply spiritual place.

Back on the nature trail we walk along the edge of the ancient pastures and into the woods, where magnificent oak trees, some over 700 years old, whisper their stories to the wind. Then, in one of the meadows we spot a fox trotting towards the tree circle.

He stops, and for a few seconds we all meet his gaze. It is a lovely moment; one in which we all feel a real connection with nature; one that has been made possible by this truly remarkable setting. www.secretmeadows.co.uk The Trust is currently looking for volunteers, so if you would like to be involved, please visit www.sinfieldtrust.org

Monday - Friday 8.30am - 6.00pm Saturday 9.00am - 5.00pm Sunday 10.00am - 4.00pm

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Framlingham Vets Call 01728 621 666 @FramVet www.framlinghamvets.com

“Did you know we

treat weekends like

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great service and no weekend surcharges”

Don’t forget we are also Earl Soham Vets Call 01728 685 185 @EarlVets www.earlsohamvets.com Open Hours Monday to Friday 8.45 - 6.00pm

‘where

every paw is important’ 31

Designers and Builders of All Weather Tennis Courts and Sports Surfaces throughout Suffolk, Norfolk and Essex

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Join us, for a mixture of leisure activities such as: Clay Shooting, Footgolf, Archery and Air Rifle Shooting.

Next Date Visit the website for next date

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telephone 01986 784347 website www.highlodge.co.uk 32

find us just off the A12 near Blythburgh, Suffolk IP17 3QT

keep up to date

Yoxford

Cross Ram & Co

Antiques Centre

SOLICITORS

A friendly and professional local legal firm

& Gardens

Don't

drive by

Please call in and visit!

• Property specialists • Wills, trusts and probate • Remortgages • Commercial property 3 Church Street, Framlingham, Suffolk IP13 9BG Tel: 01728 724111 Email: info@crossramfram.co.uk

Over 70 Antiques Dealers Arts & Crafts Beach Huts and The Flying Goose Café 5 acres of open gardens and fields Open 6 days a week 10am-5pm (4pm Sunday) Closed Tuesday Find us on the A1120, between Yoxford and Peasenhall

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This firm is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. SRA Number 45753

ABOUT FRAM. AD 73 X 102 V1.indd 1

Tel 01728 668844 www.yoxfordantiques.com

14/05/2015 16:01

33

about design

Forging the future

34

about design

The distinctive ring of a blacksmith’s anvil is a sound that has long resonated with me; its rhythmic metallic song waking me throughout my childhood as farrier Hector Moore, whose forge was opposite the family farm, began shoeing his first horse of the day. And so it is with added interest that I go to meet local blacksmith John Ball at his workshop just outside Framlingham.

Many of you will be familiar with John’s work as he has a gallery on Bridge Street, where beautiful hand forged examples of his craftsmanship such as scrolled curtain rail finials, twisted steel fire companion sets and bespoke casement windows are on display. On the day I visit the workshop John is working on a more contemporary commission: a set of fifty burnished steel Venetian masks for an award’s evening to be held in Venice later this year. Laid out on the work bench they are a thing of beauty; individually unique and yet collectively rather haunting.

A local lad, John went to school at Thomas Mills before taking an Art and Design degree at UEA. After qualifying he was lucky enough to be selected as one of only six students to gain a place on the sought after Blacksmithing course at Herefordshire College. It was here that he developed, and then fine-tuned his craft; using his innate artistry to produce unique and inspirational pieces of ironwork. Or as John puts it, “You spend three years learning the rules, and then as soon as you leave you learn how to break them!”

35

about design

With a career spanning more than twenty years, John has developed a solid reputation as a highly skilled craftsman and specialist metal worker, and reassuringly, most of his work comes from personal recommendations and professional referrals. With his love of traditional blacksmith tools and forging techniques, many of his commissions are for heritage pieces or restoration work. These vary enormously in scale and complexity, from the intricacies of a pair of Art & Craft Movement garden gates to the humble Suffolk Latch. For restoration work John prefers to work with the old-fashioned wrought iron, ‘the puff pastry of the metal world’, as it is so soft and textured, but sadly over the years it has become more and more expensive, and he often ends up using scrap metal, salvaged from car boot sales or farm sales.

36

The majority of the time John uses mild steel, which tends to be more rigid in structure, and so before starting a commission he puts it through a process called ‘forging it out’; applying heat to give it texture. Looking around, although John has the impressive modern machinery, it is the older tools that I find myself drawn to. Rows of metal files and rasps jostle for position with tongs that come in all sorts of shapes and sizes (apparently you can never have enough); there are specialised hammers for cutting, planishing and flattening; swage blocks for shaping the hot metal, and of course the anvil itself.

John believes that his is about 150 years old and, in one hit of the hammer, as the anvil sings out true and clear, I am transported back to my childhood once again. www.johnballblacksmith.co.uk Blacksmith Gallery, 24 Bridge Street, Framlingham. Open Tues/Fri/Sat 10am-3pm

At Samuel David Construction our mission is simple; to offer a bespoke building service, with total satisfaction for our customer at the heart of everything we do.

We’ll make a complimentary visit to your home, discuss your plans and ideas and then help and advise you every step of the way until you’re happy that our plans are right for you.

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Call 01394 766837

www.samueldavidconstruction.co.uk 37 sdc_about_fram_1.indd 1

05/03/2015 08:09:19

about gardens

Summer lovin’ 38

Rachel Chesman

about gardens

Summer – it’s what we yearn for in winter, race towards in spring, and cling to as autumn falls. Sometimes, in the long, grey wait of April, it feels as if summer will never arrive, until come what May – in the rush of a warm breeze – it’s here!

A dash of sunshine, a splash of rain, and every day that we step outdoors the soil’s covered in a greener layer of potential.

Then, before we know it, there are dainty dots of forget-me-nots; fat heads of rhododendrons and bold, bare tulip cups.

And when at last a clematis pops and sends wafts of chocolate through the air … ah, the sweet intoxication; the heady romance!

Enjoying another summer in your garden is like falling in love with the same person all over again – known, desired, yet still

deliciously unexpected. Where winter had us wonder if the soil could warm again, summer shows us how it does. How with tender care through the barren months, a garden will return to grow and flourish.

Of course, it’s easy to love a garden when the sky’s blue, when we’re bound to see the flowers, not the dry soil or the weeds.

But what happens when we do spy a weed amidst our blooms? We might hurry to catch it straight away, make sure it cannot grow. But then there are some weeds which, once accepted, cease to be flaws and grow to be beautiful quirks. And if we can learn to admire the blushing white of a daisy or the yellow gloss of a buttercup, summer will last much longer than we know.

“There are always flowers for those who want to see them.”

Henri Matisse 39

about gardens

Inside out Whilst May is the end of spring for some, for others it’s the start of summer – it all depends on your perspective.

But whichever way you look at it, it’s time to make hay whilst that big sun shines!

There’s no place more inviting than the one Mother Nature provides, so why not bring your living (and your lovin’) outside?

Grass is a carpet. Hedges are walls.

And flowers – the most sumptuous silks.

Keep your eyes peeled for pests and blast them from buds. Carry on weeding, hoeing and mowing. In June, whilst plants start to cover the ground and weeds are smothered, it doesn’t mean it’s time to put your feet up. Stay on top of your beds and get those veggies sown and potted. By the time July’s here, your flowers should be reaching their peak and the kitchen garden is an abundant source of delights, which can mean only one thing – it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labour.

Let the sun go to your head and turn your imagination inside-out. Get funky with furniture, re-cushion chairs. Hang glassware from branches of trees. Be ready for al-fresco dining. Clean up the barbecue, or go one better and make your own pizza oven. Then stoke the chimenea, mix the Pimms with fruit, and move in, or out, depending on your perspective.

Tales from the potting shed 40

May Prepare the soil for bedding plants Sow any perennial seeds Clear spring-flowering plants and prepare the ground for replanting Plant and train sweet peas

Sarah-Jane Page

June Dig up tulip and hyacinth bulbs and store in a dry place Water and dead-head plants Plant up hanging baskets and containers Sow lettuce, rocket, carrots, beans, courgettes, squash and pumpkins

July Raise the cutting height of lawn mowers Prune and deadhead roses Plant autumnflowering bulbs Harvest raspberries, redcurrants and gooseberries (and make summer pudding!)

Come to your local award winning nursery for:  Ornamental and Native Trees

 Fruit Trees and Soft Fruit Bushes

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Screening Plants

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Weed control and lawn maintenance A complete range of services for large gardens and parkland

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41

about food

All puffed up

42

about food

What is a curry puff? A fragrant parcel of delicately spiced meat or vegetables, aromatic and warming, and wrapped in the lightest of puff pastry, that’s what! And Vij Griew of The Curry Puff Company is on a mission to bring this taste sensation from the streets of Asia to the markets of Suffolk.

I meet Vij at his cottage in Debenham where he greets me all smiles and enthusiasm. Clad in a pinny and dusted in a light sprinkling of flour, he quickly ushers me through to the kitchen where the smell of baking envelops me with its warm embrace.“I’ve just popped some scones in the oven. I’m experimenting with a new cardamom recipe.” Now this is going to be my kind of interview!

For Vij, cooking is something that comes naturally; it is in his blood and engrained in his multi-cultural heritage. With an Indian Singaporean mother and Jewish father, he grew up surrounded by a myriad of

ceremonies and festivals, all celebrated with friends and family and with cooking and sharing dishes at their heart. Born in Malawi, and having lived in Papua New Guinea for several years, he is also no stranger to experimenting with more exotic ingredients, and has that casual confidence of a true cook. He is passionate about food and admits to waking in the night – stirred from sleep by the distant memory of an Indian dish his grandmother used to cook – and frantically writing down as many of the ingredients as he can remember.

“I still have the old tobacco tin that she used as a faithful measure, and it is from 43

about food

her and my mother that I get my instinctive understanding of flavour.”

It was whilst visiting family in Singapore that Vij had the idea of The Curry Puff Company. These delicious crescent-shaped pastries are a staple across the street markets of Asia. Easy to make and instantly warming, they are the perfect snack, and Vij was quick to realise that there was a gap in the local food scene. Farmers’ Markets and festivals have seen a huge rise in the demand for authentic street food over recent years, and the curry puff is a perfect addition. Vij serves up three savoury and two sweet versions, including Thai Vegetarian, Chicken Tikka and banana and cinnamon. He prepares batches of up to a 1000 at a time; each one neatly crimped with a distinctive pattern so that he can tell them apart when serving. Although he has only been on the road since late 44

last year, fitting the cooking in around his job and family life, he is hoping to be a regular at Framlingham’s Saturday market, as well as taking bookings for other events such as the Debenham Street Fair.

His company mantra is ‘be happy’ and there does indeed seem to be a real need within Vij to make people happy through his cooking. At that moment the buzzer goes off and Vij leaps into action. Within minutes double cream is whipped into soft peaks, a pot of chai and two bone china cup and saucers appear on the table and hidden at the back of the cupboard he discovers a jar or homemade damson jam. The warm scones are piled onto a plate and for a moment we sit in silence, the subtle hint of cardamom gently rising to greet each mouthful; and then…. we both burst into a smile. Mission accomplished! www.thecurrypuffcompany.co.uk M: 07773 972651

rive

Win

r cr Two uis hou e r Lad C y F hoo for up sceni lore se to c Rel nce o betwe 11 fr ie ax r th e a e A n the nds rives you llen ex rs G Ful l co of Su plore ardine ffo the ok r Hom on b ed br lk oar unc em h d a d and e a p mu ple ffin s pie

a river cruise along the rivers of Suffolk aboard an historic WW2 wooden vessel.

One lucky aboutfram reader will win a trip aboard either the ‘Lady Florence’ from Orford or the ‘Allen Gardiner’ from Ipswich for up to 11 friends. The prize includes a 2 hour cruise (9:30-11:30am) along the calm waters of the Rivers Orwell or the Alde & Ore, as well as a delicious full cooked brunch.

Boarding the boat is from 9.15am, where you will be served a glass of fresh orange juice out on deck. The cruise departs at 9:30am and the ship’s bell will signal the arrival of a full cooked brunch in the dining saloon.

After this you can explore the decks and settle down to enjoy the magnificent views out across the river to the passing Suffolk countryside. Weather permitting, the galley will serve homemade hot apple pie, muffins and fresh tea out on deck as we make our return journey.

For more information please visit www.lady-florence.co.uk or www.allen-gardiner.co.uk

Q. For your chance to win this fantastic prize, simply answer this question correctly: Name one of the Suffolk rivers that you might be cruising on?

Send your answers to prize@aboutfram.com The competition closes at 23:59 on the 31st July 2015

Terms and conditions The winner will be issued with a voucher valid for 18 months.

This voucher cannot be redeemed for cash or transferred to another person. The prize is subject to availability and cannot be redeemed on Bank Holidays, Christmas and New Year. aboutfram will automatically add your email address to its own database for marketing purposes. Your email address will not be shared with any other companies apart from Lady Florence and Allen Gardiner. Please indicate in your email if you do not wish to be contacted by either aboutfram or Lady Florence and Allen Gardiner and we will delete your email address from our records.

45

about taste

New faces, changing places, and turning tables

46

Seasonal Saturdays

Crown in glory

Riding high

Brick Kiln Barn kicks off the summer with a fabulous menu for its Saturday supper on the 20th June. With three seasonal fish salads, guineafowl breast with tarragon, asparagus and beans and to round that off, custard tart, strawberries, mascarpone & nutmeg ice cream, our mouths are already watering!

It’s been a busy year so far for many of our local pubs, and most notably, The Glemham Crown. Once a fabulous hostelry in a lovely setting, it had sadly ended up like so many village pubs, shutting its doors last year.

However, we are thrilled to learn that Richard Andrews, former chef at the legendary Middleton Bell, is taking up ownership. If his food at The Bell is anything to go by, we are in for a real treat.

Let’s hope he has his superb Yorkshire Puds on the menu!

The Sweffling White Horse has been named as the Ipswich and East Suffolk CAMRA Pub of the Year!

Allan Crampton of CAMRA says it’s “a fabulous example of what can be achieved through hard work and finding your own niche in the local pub scene”.

We couldn’t agree more, and with the beer garden now open for the season and lots of events lined up, why not do what we did in issue 3 and jump on your bikes and take a trip out. It’s a stunning ride along the lanes!

about taste

Making tracks

From Browns to Crown

Perfect chemistry

Former chef at The Castle Inn, Barry and his lovely partner Liz have taken on The Railway. For those of you who remember George and Maureen as publicans, we think you will be delighted to hear that Barry and Liz hope to make The Railway Inn a welcoming, friendly community pub where good local beer and good value homemade food awaits you.

Its beautiful, safe enclosed “secret” beer garden offers another attraction for everyone including the many families in Framlingham wanting to “pop out”, and a large patio area planted with pretty flowers and tubs is the perfect place to watch the world go by on a sunny day. And with the great news that Framlingham Wine Shop is supplying the wine, we can’t wait to test it out!

Having transformed The Crown into a vibrant hub at the heart of our town, bringing what was a tired old building back to life, after three years India and David are moving on. New owners Chris and Gabriela ran a number of different hospitality venues over the last twenty years, most recently Browns in Cambridge, and are really looking forward to meeting everyone in the town.

With such a great success now behind them, India and David are really pleased to pass on the reins to this enthusiastic couple, as they say, “We wish Chris and Gabriella all the very best and hope The Crown goes from strength to strength.”

The Victoria in Earl Soham is a pub that we know and love, and having celebrated its thirtieth birthday last year, things are pretty much the same as when it opened, and with John’s delicious Earl Soham Brewery beers on tap, roaring fires and picnic tables on the green out front to suit the seasons, it is no surprise of its continued popularity. You’ll always receive a warm welcome and homecooked food and delicious ale is guaranteed. And, as well as their traditional dishes such as corn beef hash, there’s always interesting fayre on the menu board, for example pan fried plaice with tomato and herb butter, so if you have yet to discover it, take our word for it and pop along.

47

The Victoria Earl Soham

Eat, Drink & Be Merry T 01728 685758

T HE B EST F OOD 48

AND

T: 01728 723455

T HE B EST M OOD

IN

T OWN

www.thestationframlingham.com

THE BELL AT CRETINGHAM Situated in the picturesque village of Cretingham, The Bell is a traditional country pub, with oak beams and log burning stoves.

Try a real ale or glass of wine, as you relax in the bar with a light bite to eat.

If you prefer something more substantial, take a seat in the restaurant.

From fish platters, ploughman’s and sandwiches to hearty casseroles steaks and vegetarian dishes.

Dogs are welcome in the bar areas.

Telephone 01728 685419 OPEN MONDAY - SATURDAY 11.30am-3pm & 5.30pm-11pm SUNDAY 12noon-4pm & 7pm-10.30pm

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  

 

49

about taste

Fresh, crisp, cleansing and healthy, this delicious Thai salad is a feast for the eyes, and comes with a spicy zing that you can adapt to suit.

Created by Vij Griew of The Curry Puff Company, the secret to this recipe is using the freshest ingredients possible; he likes to stock up every weekend at Framlingham Market.

Zingy Thai Salad Salad ingredients 2 medium sized and firm tomatoes 2 cucumbers If you get thin skinned ones then there is no need to peel

4 spring onions 1 large red pepper I like to use the long thin ones (I think they are called a sweet Spanish Mammoth)

1 medium sized carrot Big bunch of fresh coriander

50

Dressing ingredients Juice of 2 freshly squeezed limes 6 tablespoons dark soy sauce 4 teaspoons white wine vinegar 3 teaspoons white caster sugar 2-3 Birds Eye chillies 4-6 cloves garlic Pinch of fresh ground black pepper (Top tip: pepper ground with pestle and mortar releases unimaginable flavours).

Method De-seed the cucumbers, tomatoes and red pepper (only peel the cucumber if the skin is thick) and into 1cm cubes. Now peel and grate the carrot (long thin grating with a potato peeler adds a visual element to the salad), and finely slice the spring onions.

Wash and roughly chop the coriander, and then combine all of the prepared veg into a bowl, and set aside whilst you prepare the dressing.

Squeeze the fresh limes and pour the juice into a clean jam jar. Add the soy sauce, vinegar, sugar and pepper. Finely chop or grate in the chillies and garlic. Now close the lid and shake like a cocktail.

Taste and adjust the spiciness to your liking.

Just before serving pour the dressing over the salad in a quantity to suit. Stored in the fridge and sealed in an airtight tub, this salad stays crisp and fresh for 2-3 days, and the dressing will keep for months.

Other ingredients you might try are fine beans, radishes, shallots, baby sweetcorn, and mangetouts.

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A traditional village pub serving food, Suffolk ales, wines and cyders.

For live music, events and special evenings check our website www.whitehorserendham.co.uk on the B1119 between Framlingham and Saxmundham Telephone 01728 663497

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52

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53

round & about

Panoramic perfection According to Wikipedia, “Marlesford has a place of worship and a pub.� Well, as the starting point of our gentile ramble this issue, we now know that this charming village has so much more to offer.

We park by the church, and whilst Kerry and I admire its architectural beauty and try to take a few arty shots of the gates, the kids all disappear down the lane, as they have heard some bleating lambs that are obviously in need of their attention.

After a few false starts we finally manage to pry them away and set off on this unfamiliar walk that, according to the map, will lead us in a circle around the Marlesford Hall estate.

54

Just up the lane from the church, a clearly marked sign leads us onto a track that skirts the edge of the hall’s gardens and takes us out past the picturesque water meadows of the River Ore. At this time of year there is an almost luminescent quality to the green of the grass, and bathed in the early evening light, it really is very beautiful. To our right we can just see the roof of the hall, and half way along the track it is hard to resist the temptation to stand on the little white gate to get a better look!

At the next gateway, we go right and follow the path up along the side of a field that has been drilled for beans; their tiny green shoots just breaking through the soil.

Without realising it we have been gaining in altitude and as we stop to adjust coats

round & about

and bags, we take a moment to admire the view. A line of oaks can be seen striding off into the distance; the rolling countryside is a patchwork of colour, and quite amazingly there is not a building in sight. At the top of the field we turn left onto a farm track, and then fork right, surprising a young hare loping through the grass. Up ahead the path parts the way through a field of wheat, and the kids all run ahead to pose beneath a solitary oak that has ignored the rules of modern agriculture and demands that you go around!

From here we head for Hill House Farm, where a lovely barn conversion must have the most enviable of views. At the farm we follow the lane down to the road, where we turn right and stroll the half mile back towards the village. On the way we pass the entrance to Marlesford Hall and are greeted by a pair of horses who have come over to say hello.

Back at the car the lambs demand a fond farewell, and we leave this quintessential English village with the sound of bleating in our ears.

Passing a pond on the left, and after a few turns of the map, we leave the main path and bear right, going along the top of the field and then back down the hedge-line towards a small bridge at the bottom.

55

Stockists

56

about style

about you

Darcy B Hill House 13 Market Hill Framlingham. IP13 9AN T: 01728 720052 www.darcy-b.com Impulse Fashion Market Hill Framlingham. IP13 9AN T: 01728 724969 Isabella Singletons www.isabellasingletondesign.com John Self Shoes 5a Albert Place Framlingham. IP13 9DX T: 01728 723470 Lavender & Jude 2 Church Street Stradbroke. IP21 5HT T: 01379 384208 www.lavenderandjude.co.uk Man About Town 21a Stonham Barns. IP14 6AT T: 07810 487524 Ruby Tyger No 1 The Mews Market Hill Framlingham. IP13 9AN T: 01728 724470 www.rubytyger.co.uk Sew Hazy T: 07886 946321 www.etsy.com/shop/SewHazy Two Peas 3 College Road Framlingham. IP13 9EJ T: 07541 240394 9:2:5 by Sarah Cole Market Hill Framlingham. IP13 9AN T: 01728 723353

Carley Hill Hair 29 Market Hill Framlingham. IP13 9AN T: 01728 621068 www.carleyhill.co.uk Framlingham Pharmacy 32 Market Hill Framlingham. IP13 9AY T: 01728 723477 www.cooperspharmacy framlingham.co.uk The Retreat 12-14 Wells Close Square Framlingham. IP13 9DU T: 01728 723445 www.theretreatfram.co.uk

about interiors Carley’s Yard 25 Fore Street Framlingham. IP13 9DY T: 01728 724427 www.carleysyard.co.uk Catherine Haddon at Two Peas 3 College Road, Framlingham. IP13 9EJ T: 07821 988886 Dix-Sept Antiques 17 Station Road Framlingham. IP13 9EA T: 01728 621505 www.dixsept.co.uk Homestead Store www.homesteadstore.co.uk (Available at Carley’s Yard) Leo’s Deli 17 Market Hill Framlingham. IP13 9AN T: 01728 724059 www.leosdeli.co.uk Ruby Tyger No 1 The Mews Market Hill Framlingham. IP13 9AN T: 01728 724470 www.rubytyger.co.uk

Sew Hazy T: 07886 946321 www.etsy.com/shop/SewHazy Theatre Antiques 10 Church Street Framlingham. IP13 9BH T: 01728 621069

about taste Brick Kiln Barn Sibton Saxmundham. IP17 2NE T: 01728 660181 www.brickkilnbarn.com Sweffling White Horse Low Road Sweffling. IP17 2BB T: 01728 664178 www.swefflingwhitehorse.co.uk The Crown in Framlingham Market Square Framlingham. IP13 9AN T: 01728 723521 www.theframlinghamcrown.co.uk The Glemham Crown Great Glemham Saxmundham. IP17 2DA T: 01728 663693 The Railway 9 Station Road Framlingham. IP13 9EA T: 01728 724760 www.therailwayframlingham.co.uk The Victoria Earl Soham Woodbridge. IP13 7RL T: 01728 685758 www.earlsohamvictoria.co.uk

Photography credits Dominic Whiten Coastal Creative Photography www.coastalcreative photography.co.uk Rufus Owen www.rufusowen.com Rachel Chesman www.loveimages.co.uk

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