Discover Sudbury

Make the most of your stay at The Mill Hotel and explore a town that’s steeped in history.

Photograph by Dave Watts

Intrinsically linked to one of the greatest artists of his era, Sudbury in Suffolk is a picture-perfect destination.

It’s the birthplace of Thomas Gainsborough, who in turn inspired fellow master, John Constable, born just a few miles down the river.

An area of outstanding beauty, Sudbury has a history that is both rich and fascinating. Located near the River Stour on the border of Suffolk and Essex, this beautiful market town dates back to Anglo Saxon times at the end of the 8th century. Its name means ‘south borough’, distinguishing it from settlements to the north, such as Bury St Edmonds.

Today, Sudbury has myriad attractions to offer the discerning traveller – from Gainsborough’s home and stunning architecture to a bustling market, shops, restaurants and cafes to stunning meadow walks and mesmerising views.

Built in 1841, the impressive, Grade II listed Corn Exchange Building houses the town’s public library and tourist information centre – an essential first stop for exploring the centre and surrounding areas.

Gainsborough’s House, which originally dates back to around 1520, is today a public museum, gallery and garden dedicated to the life and

work of the artist (1727-88). The venue is due to re-open this summer after major redevelopment work that will create the largest gallery in Suffolk.

Situated in the centre of town is the magnificent cultural venue of St Peter’s, a Grade I listed former church in the care of the Churches Conservation Trust. While a church has been on the site since as far back as 1180, the current perpendicular structure dates from the 15th century. Sudbury Heritage Centre is housed within the beautiful Grade II listed Town Hall and traces the town’s past from the Iron Age to the present day – and you can even come face-to-face with Simon of Sudbury, the Archbishop of Canterbury beheaded in the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381.

Walk in the footsteps of one of England’s greatest painters ever and take in some breathtaking scenery on the Gainsborough Trail. The 12.4-mile loop of pathways will eventually connect the whole of the Sudbury area and offer the best of the surrounding countryside.

The first section of the trail, the 3.5 mile-Meadow Walk encompasses the ancient Water Meadows, offering a rich source of biodiversity for a wide variety of wildflowers, insects, birds and mammals.

The Talbot Trail, which takes its name from a breed of hunting dog featuring on the town coat of arms, takes in 14 statues along the route illustrating intriguing episodes in the town’s history. It offers a great way to discover ancient architecture and rich cultural and industrial heritage as one of the country’s leading wool and silk production centres.

www.sudburytowncouncil.co.uk

Bottom left to right: Gainsborough’s House; Salter’s Hall; Meadow Walk; (insert) Corn Exchange; (above right) Talbot Trail. Photography by Andy Longhurst, Bill Hiskett and Robin Drury