Best of Suffolk 2012 by Tilston Phillips

the best of

Suffolk JULY 2012 – JUNE 2013

£4.50

the best of

Suffolk

What’s your Suffolk? To many it’s the characteristic, expansive East Anglian skies, stretching evocatively from Constable Country to the Heritage Coast, helping to create the county’s unique atmosphere. To others, it’s the attraction of discovering distinctive villages and towns.

hether you are a long-time resident or a first-time visitor to the county, The Best of Suffolk Magazine has an array of ideas for making the most of what’s on offer – and there really is something for everyone. We are delighted to note that this marks the tenth issue of The Best of Suffolk Magazine, and while it has been a decade of change and transition, the magazine continues to expand on the strength of all that is great about Suffolk. With a visitor’s guide to the not-to-bemissed villages and towns, even Suffolk residents are sure to discover hidden treasures in their midst. Suffolk is indeed a glorious place with a wealth of fascinating elements. Its flat coastal topography and undulating inland geography lends itself to exploration. Where to start? The villages and towns, the forests, the sea? There is so much to discover and so much to enjoy. For us who live here, it’s obvious what a magical place it is, timeless yet evolving; where there's always a newlyfound location or experience awaiting. As you travel around you'll notice that the county has an abundance of local food. There are numerous farm shops and delicatessens and a disproportionate

number of independent butchers, fishmongers and pick-your-owns. They are well worth a visit. You'll also find superb local produce widely available on the menus of pubs and restaurants throughout the county, in a display of local ingredients that links the sea, the soil, wildlife, livestock and, most of all, its people. Suffolk is such an irresistible magnet for visitors and for the many who move here to make the county their home. It offers a superb quality of life, whether you are a young family starting out with your children, or perhaps older, retiring here and rediscovering a new energy in your lives. The Best of Suffolk has all the information you need to discover what’s waiting, whether you are looking for a memorable piece to add to your wardrobe, an adventurous day of sport or just a warming fire and local pint to wind down the day. And if it’s the kind of place you can see yourself staying for ever, The Best of Suffolk has ideas for every amenity, from schools to getting the ‘Suffolk home’ look. Whatever your passion, we hope you enjoy discovering ‘your Suffolk’.

Jonathan Tilston Publisher

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Contents Publisher Jonathan Tilston Tilston Phillips Magazines Ltd

Aldeburgh and Thorpeness Beccles

Managing Editor Deanna Tilston

Bungay

Bury St Edmunds

Debenham

Design Alan Brannan Design alanbrannandesign.co.uk

Felixstowe

Framlingham

Photographic Contributors Cover Image – Kate Barclay ©VisitBritain – Rod Edwards ©VisitBritain – Britain on View ©VisitBritain – Richard Surman ©VisitBritain – Adrian Houston ©VisitBritain – Tony Pleavin p80 ©Thain Studios p83 ©British Larder Ipswich Borough Council St Edmundsbury Council

Hadleigh

Halesworth

Ipswich

Lavenham, Kersey and Monks Eleigh

Long Melford, Cavendish and Clare

Newmarket

Orford

Snape

Southwold

Walberswick, Blythburgh and Dunwich

Woodbridge

Yoxford, Peasenhall and Sibton

Across the borders

East Bergholt, Flatford and Dedham

The best of Suffolk Outdoors

Children’s Suffolk

The best of Suffolk fashion

The best of Suffolk food

The best of Suffolk pub guide

The best of Suffolk eating out

Sales Marina Jacobs

Editorial Contributors Ros Green Laura Potts Ottilie Tilston Visit Suffolk

With special thanks to all advertisers. We welcome your information and comments. Please send to: Tilston Phillips Magazines Ltd 141 Norwich Road Ipswich IP1 2PP 01473 286155 sales@tilstonphillips.com tilstonphillips.com ©Tilston Phillips Magazines Ltd 2012 twitter.com/tilstonphillips facebook.com/tilstonphillips

The best of Suffolk interiors

104

The best of Suffolk schools

117

The best of Suffolk holiday accommodation

128

Literary Suffolk

130

Opening doors for your business

132

the best of Suffolk

A t0 Z of Suffolk towns

Refresh and rejuvenate your body and mind by escaping to the revitalising experiences that Suffolk has to offer in abundance.

Great days out in Suffolk I

t is time to simply relax. Our many independent hotels have sumptuous furnishings and character by the bucket-load, our cosy cottages present a home-from-home experience and our B&Bs provide a warm and friendly welcome. If you require more retail therapy than relaxation, Suffolk provides an array of charming market towns that deliver retail extravagance. In Bury St Edmunds, famous for its large open-air market, independent shops very much complement the recognised high street retail experience offered by the Arc shopping centre – it’s the perfect mix of bespoke boutiques, cafés and high street shops. From farmers’ markets to fresh fish; designer clobber to vintage bargains; antiques to credit-crunching car boot sales, nowhere does it better than Suffolk. Once you have explored our towns and villages why not put your feet up and do nothing!

Maybe read a book in a lovely country garden or catch up with friends or family. Moving into the evening, Newmarket Races provides the perfect place to have a flutter on the horses, a taste of fine dining and some excellent live music. During 2012 Tom Jones and Van Morrison will grace the stage to provide the afterevent entertainment. It provides a great night out for all the family to enjoy. Revived, you will be ready to experience our wide, open skies and landscapes which make for invigorating country or coastal strolls or cycling adventures. Our footpaths are plentiful and varied from open meadows, to forest trails to cliff-top paths. Exploring our countryside and villages by bicycle is recommended, too, but do not forget to drop by a country pub en route. Indeed, walk or cycle the landscapes and enjoy the views by eating in one of our many restaurants or pubs that serve local produce.

Yoxford Debenham

Peasenhall Framlingham

Stowmarket Needham Market Lavenham Long Melford Sudbury

Monks Eleigh Kersey Hadleigh

Dedham

Southwold Walberswick

Halesworth Blythburgh

Bury St Edmunds Newmarket

Lowestoft Oulton Broad

Beccles

Bungay

Dunwich

Sibdon

Snape Woodbridge

Thorpeness Aldeburgh Orford

Ipswich

Felixstowe

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Creative Inspiration A chance meeting with leading landscape artist Paul Evans inspired Julie and Andrew Knibbs to open their art gallery on the Suffolk coast. Aldeburgh Contemporary Arts is now establishing a growing reputation for offering quality artworks at affordable prices, in relaxed surroundings. Visit the gallery, situated prominently on the High Street and prepare to be inspired with a heady mix of contemporary art by more than 60 artists.

2 Avocets by Michael Richmond

Early Morning Crag Path by Graham Spice

A hard fought race by Janet Nelson

Little Terns by Robert Greenhalf

Stour reflections by Paul Evans

The Gallery

ALDEBURGH CONTEMPORARY ARTS

From the dangerously-collectable watercolour and acrylic paintings of Paul Evans, to the finely-drawn sepia etchings of Suffolk artist Derek Chambers. From the painstaking detail of Sydney Sykes still-life oils to the texture and colour of landscape painter John Lawrence. Compare the style of watercolours, oils and woodcuts by prominent wildlife artist Robert Greenhalf with the bold aquatint etchings of Susie Perring. View unique ceramics, from the colourful raku of Pat Armstrong to the individually-crafted birds of Michael Richmond to the internationallyacclaimed sculptures of Peter Beard. Be inspired.

Aldeburgh Contemporary Arts can be found at 187 High St, Aldeburgh. Open six days a week (closed Tuesdays) 10.00am-5.00pm. Telephone: 01728 454212 www.aldeburghcontemporaryarts.co.uk

the best of Suffolk

Aldeburgh and Thorpeness Famed for its associations with the composer Benjamin Britten, its festival and its fish and chips, the little town of Aldeburgh is charming

Old-fashioned seaside charm

For artists, writers and nature lovers The High Street is lined with tempting shops and galleries offering some very tasty retail therapy. Browse here for quality fashion brands, unusual gifts, lovely arts and crafts, good books and all sorts of attractive ‘must-haves’ for the home. Quaint and pretty houses decorate the seafront, and when the town fills up on high days and holidays you can understand why Benjamin Britten and his partner Peter Pears found the intrusion too great and swapped their home in Crabbe Street (marked by a blue plaque) for The Red House in Golf Lane, which continues to house the Britten-Pears Library. The internationally-acclaimed music festival happens in June, most of it based at nearby Snape Maltings, and a growing and highly successful Literary Festival takes place in spring. In August the town fills with holidaymakers and the boating

community heads for the Aldeburgh Regatta. The summer carnival is renowned for its Chinese lantern procession to the beach and firework finale. The town offers a fine golf course, a long pebble and shingle beach, an historic Moot Hall housing a small museum, a boating lake, cosy pubs, good restaurants, its own cinema, and the parish church where Benjamin Britten is commemorated and where Elizabeth Garrett Anderson, Britain’s first woman doctor and first female mayor, worshipped. A seafront stroll in either direction comes highly recommended. Head south beyond the sailing club towards the largest of Suffolk’s Martello Towers and you reach the now-vanished Slaughden, a community that time and tide eventually removed and the birthplace of the poet George Crabbe.

Turn in the other direction, and continue north beyond the fishing sheds and boats that testify to the small but determined number of inshore fishermen who still land their catch on the beach, and you will see Maggi Hambling’s giant scallop shell sculpture crafted in homage to Benjamin Britten. Continue travelling in this direction and you come to Thorpeness, a magical place created in the early 1900s by barrister and playwright Glencairn Stuart Ogilvie, who turned a fishing hamlet into a model holiday village along fantasy lines that would have delighted his friend and ‘Peter Pan’ author, J. M. Barrie. You will feel you are stepping back in time as you row a boat out on to the man-made Meare, view the 19th-century post mill (moved here bodily from a neighbouring village) or marvel at the glorious ‘House in the Clouds’, a gigantic folly built to disguise a water tower. Thorpeness also has its own 18-hole links golf course, laid out by James Braid in 1922, which incorporates a hotel and country club, with bar and restaurant.

THE ALDEBURGH LITERARY FESTIVAL MarCh ALDEBURGH FESTIVAL OF MUSIC AND THE ARTS – SNAPE MALTINGS CONCERT HALL JunE ALDEBURGH CARNIVAL AND REGATTA | THORPENESS REGATTA AND FIREWORKS auguST THE INTERNATIONAL POETRY FESTIVAL ALDEBURGH novEMbEr the best of Suffolk

You can find Caramel in two delightful destinations in Aldeburgh and Snape Maltings Caramel – aldeburgh is well know for its impressive range of collections, from casual wear to wedding outfits. We have a selection of handmade fascinators, jewellery and scarves to complement your outfit 140 High Street, Aldeburgh, Suﬀolk IP15 5AQ

01728 452141

Caramel – Snape maltings sits within an independent retail area with no parking restrictions. Here we oﬀer a diverse range of collections you won’t find in our Caramel Aldeburgh shop. We also stock a range of gifts and accessories. Snape Maltings, Snape, Suﬀolk IP17 1SP

01728 687467

www.caramel-aldeburgh.co.uk Whichever Caramel you visit you will discover the delights of shopping in a warm and relaxed setting where a friendly welcome awaits you. Visit both shops and experience the diﬀerence.

THORPENESS

THE DOLPHIN INN & VILLAGE STORE

Contact details: 01728 454994 www.thorpenessdolphin.com dolphininn@hotmail.co.uk 8

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A unique collection of prestigious self catering properties in the most sought after locations. Two bedroom sea front cottages to nine bedroom mansion houses of character.

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PRIME HOLIDAY LETTINGS The Suffolk 152 High Street Aldeburgh IP15 5AQ Tel: 01728 454899

www.primeholidaylettings.com

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Beccles Right up at the top of the county, Beccles lies on the River Waveney at the southernmost tip of the Broads

Bustling Beccles

A thriving community, past and present Beccles stands on the River Waveney, part of the Suffolk Broads but on the border with Norfolk. Beccles was a thriving settlement well before the Norman invasion, and has a colourful history going back more than a thousand years. It has been a port for most of its existence and is able to receive ships large as well as small, making it an important trading centre. The quay remains, and is still a lively spot, especially in summer, with daily boat trips and its own visitor and information centre, café, shop and children’s play area. The imposing tower of St Michael’s church has clocks on three faces, but a blank north wall facing the river. Local legend has it that this is because Beccles folk would not give their Norfolk neighbours anything – not even the time of day! The church of St Michael’s is a striking landmark, and the tower is

sometimes open for very fit people to climb to the top and admire the stunning views. Horatio Nelson’s parents were married here, and his father was rector. Unusually, the tower is separate from the church itself, because it would otherwise have slid down the cliff into the river! For today’s visitors Beccles has a good mix of retail outlets, including wellknown national names and attractive local independents selling everything from antiques, gifts and cookware, books, rugs and furniture to model boats. There is also The Big Dog ferry, which runs through unspoilt stretches of the River Waveney, starting at The Beccles Lido to the riverside pub at Geldeston. The boat trip takes 45 minutes each way and runs from June to September. Leman House, in Ballygate, is now home to Beccles & District Museum, and well worth a visit for its mix of

displays about local life. It is a Grade 1-listed building and was endowed by Sir John Leman as a school back in 1632. Sir John, scion of a well-known local family, made his fortune trading in butter and cheese and went on to become Lord Mayor of London. The local high school still bears his name, although it is now sited elsewhere and caters for rather more than the original 48 boys. A number of wellknown people have attended Sir John Leman High School, including Nobel Prize-winner Professor Dorothy Crowfoot Hodgkin, and the actor Sir John Mills. Walkers can access the marshes on land granted to the town by Elizabeth I in 1584, an act commemorated on the town sign. The town also has a large common, complete with nine-hole golf course, where owners of grazing cattle still have ancient access rights.

BECCLES CARNIVAL PROCESSION | BECCLES HARVEST MOON FESTIVAL auguST THE BECCLES FESTIVAL SEPTEMbEr 10

the best of Suffolk

Bungay The little town of Bungay is a browser’s delight, whether it is history and legend you are looking for or antiques shopping

Black dog days

A browser’s delight of a village The Butter Cross provides an attractive centrepiece to the town and it is here that you will find the traditional Thursday market. The town holds a number of special street markets during the year, including a big antiques market which stretches the length of Earsham Street and attracts thousands of visitors. As well as antiques, the town has a whole range of individual independent outlets and galleries selling everything from wholefoods, wedding tiaras and wood carvings to pretty pottery, luxury gifts, lovely items for the home and terrific toys. Bungay’s Norman Castle, much ruined over the centuries, is now administered

by a trust and happily brought to life by its own visitor centre, shop and welcoming café. Another uniquely local feature is the Bungay Town Reeve – which turns out to be not a place but a person – and is an ancient civic office that has survived from Saxon times! In 1688 the Great Fire of Bungay devastated the town. The oldest complete building to survive was the round-towered Church of Holy Trinity, which narrowly escaped the blaze and has the plaque to prove it. Another beautiful church, now redundant, is famous for an enduring piece of folklore concerning the infamous Black Dog of Bungay, which is supposed to have rushed into St Mary’s

during a storm in 1577 and killed a number of the congregation. Today, among other things, the Black Dog lends its name to the annual local marathon, run in April. The town has some historic hostelries to enjoy and a series of accessible footpaths to follow. Bungay Museum is to be found in the council office, and local amenities include a golf course, sports hall, bowling green and indoor swimming pool. Just a few miles out of town, St Peter’s Hall and Brewery makes an interesting and tasty spot to visit. There is also fantastic canoeing at Outney Meadow along the River Waveney.

BUNGAY BLACK DOG MARATHON aPriL | BUNGAY ANTIQUES STREET MARKET | BUNGAY FESTIVAL JuLy

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East Anglia The Bonhams’ name is recognised worldwide throughout all sectors of the fine art, antiques and collectors’ market. Our main East Anglian office is located in the heart of historic Bury St Edmunds and for our clients throughout Suffolk, Cambridgeshire & Essex we offer direct access to all our UK & International sales. With experienced valuers in the region supported by over 50 specialist departments we offer an unrivalled auction service, from single items to extensive collections.

Confidential auction estimates are provided free of charge 01284 716 190 bury@bonhams.com English School, 18th Century Portrait of a Mahratta, half-length, in a white jacket and a turban Sourced in Suffolk and sold in London, 4 July 2012 for £39,650.

Bonhams 21 Churchgate Street Bury St Edmunds Suffolk IP33 1RG

International Auctioneers and Valuers - bonhams.com/bury Values stated include buyer’s premium. Details can be found at bonhams.com

Bury St Edmunds Historic Bury St Edmunds, in the heart of west Suffolk, is one of the region’s biggest and best-loved market towns.

Medieval history

An Abbey, an Angel and a local Ale The town’s namesake, St Edmund, martyred King of East Anglia, died in the 9th century but his shrine became the focal point for the development of one of the largest and most powerful abbeys in all the land. You can wander round its ruins in the lovely Abbey Gardens, where the Abbey Gate and Norman Tower are the most complete surviving parts of the original vast complex. The gardens are now a pleasing public park, renowned for its bedding displays. The grounds include a children’s play area.

Hard to miss is the neighbouring St Edmundsbury Cathedral, the county’s only Anglican Cathedral, lately crowned with a magnificent 140ft-tower, which now dominates the skyline as if it has somehow always been there. A little farther along the street – and worth the walk – is another of the town’s fine churches, St Mary’s, where Henry VIII’s sister, Mary Rose Tudor, is buried. Bury (as it is known locally) is a great place to explore by foot, with delights and surprises around every corner. Among other gems, it can boast one of the oldest working theatres in the country and the smallest pub. Moyse’s Hall, now a museum, also happens to be among the most ancient of the region’s town houses.

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Charles Dickens famously gave public readings in the beautiful Athenaeum on Angel Hill, staying at the neighbouring Angel Hotel, which gets a mention in ‘Pickwick Papers’. Throughout the Middle Ages, Angel Hill was the site of the Bury Fair, attended by traders and entertainers from all over Europe. Today it still attracts visitors from home and abroad, but mostly serves as a car park. Shopping is good, and offers a broad mix of well-known high street names and smaller independents. Wednesdays and Saturdays are market days when lots of colourful stalls fill the Buttermarket. The Market Cross building in the Cornhill originally had an open marketplace below. Now it houses shops and a tearoom, with a vibrant art gallery and alluring shop above. There are plenty of restaurants, pubs, hotels, wine and coffee bars dotted in and around the town centre where you can find refreshment and take the weight off your feet. Squeeze into the nearby Nutshell if you want to say you have visited the pub that the Guinness Book of Records lists as the smallest in Britain. Be warned that it features a mummified cat hanging over the bar, a grim reminder of the days when people believed that walling up a poor creature like this in a house would ward off evil spirits. Some of the region’s best-known and best-loved ales are brewed in Bury and beer lovers will want to make a beeline for the Greene King Brewery Visitor Centre. Nearby is to be found the wonderful Theatre Royal, one of the few surviving Georgian playhouses in England. It reopened in 2007 after undergoing extensive development and renovation. The Bury St Edmunds Festival always offers a rich and varied feast of cultural activity and takes place in May.

BURY ST EDMUNDS REAL BEER AND FOOD FESTIVAL | BURY ST EDMUNDS FESTIVAL May FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL auguST | ART@ EDMUND GALLERY AT ST EDMUNDSBURY CATHEDRAL SEPTEMbEr 14

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Gerald Boughton has been established in Bury St Edmunds for over 40 years, building an enviable reputation for the quality and variety of its menswear. From the classic to contemporary, we supply formal and casual wear from many of the UK and Europe's most respected brands. An independent, family run business, we pride ourselves on our extensive range, as well as our friendly and experienced staff. Gerald Boughton Menswear 64 Cornhill, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1BE. Telephone: 01284 753044 www.geraldboughton.co.uk

W&M SMITH

We stock a huge range of florist sundries including:

• Smithers Oasis® range in almost its entirety • Glassware of all shapes and sizes • Large selection of silk, latex, parchment and dried flowers • Bridal accessories • Ribbons • Baskets and much much more NO ACCESS FOR CHILDREN All major credit cards accepted

Come along and wander at your leisure in our spacious location Monday & Thursday 10.00am-7.00pm Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 10.00am-5.00pm Open 10.00am-4.00pm selected Saturday & Sunday

The Pightle Barn, Blacksmiths Lane, Middlewood Green, Stowmarket IP14 5EU Tel: 01449 711014 Fax: 01449 711815 Email: wensmith@lineone.net

www.wandmsmith.co.uk the best of Suffolk

Independent retailing at its ďŹ nest

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Remember the kind of family-run jewellery shop that was integral to the special moments in life? Laura Potts finds it still exists – complete with signature shopfront clock – at Thurlow Champness in Bury St. Edmunds

Its familiar clock is still in good working order, but inside Thurlow Champness Jewellers there is a sense that time stands still – in the best possible way, of course. This is independent retailing at its old-fashioned finest, offering the kind of patient, friendly, expert customer service that has become a rare and pleasant surprise. Originally housing a watch and clockmakers, Thurlow Champness boasts a Rolex-accredited repair service and the most highly trained experts in valuation, whilst shoppers are spoilt for choice. In addition to Rolex, the jeweller specialises in Bremont, Ebel and Longines watches; Georg Jensen, Fope, Marco Bicego, Mikimoto pearls and much more. It also carries crystal, silverware, clocks and barometers, antique jewellery, and provides services from bespoke jewellery design, reproduction and repairs, to all levels of watch maintenance and repair. Indeed, businesses don’t stay around for as long as Thurlow Champness without the devotion of customers who are willing to entrust their most precious

family heirlooms, or seek the jewellery store’s expert guidance in choosing the heirlooms of the future. It’s a reputation built over more than 100 years, since the Thurlow Champness family in the first part of the 20th Century took over the picturesque shop, where in the 1800s the best timepieces in Suffolk were created. The current owners are siblings Pippa Daniels and Trevor Salt, but Thurlow Champness employees tend to stay for years because “we’re all part of the family,” said associate director Lesley Ryland. Perhaps an even clearer indicator of its value to Bury St. Edmunds and beyond is the loyalty of so many Thurlow Champness customers who return, generation after generation, to mark life’s most important events. Lesley, who has worked in the shop for 21 years, said she has “sold engagement and wedding rings to couples whose children I have later sold engagement and wedding rings to… they bring them in as babies and we watch them grow up and have children of their own.” It’s an honour, she said, to toast a happy couple with a glass of Champagne or help delighted

14 abbeygate Street, bury St Edmunds, Suffolk iP33 1un

01284 754747

grandparents choose a meaningful and lasting christening gift. There can’t be many independent retailers who get thank-you letters frequently from satisfied customers. “We have pieces that are really old family pieces that we restore and, often, we get in letters of thanks or appreciation from customers for getting it right,” Lesley said. “It could be a silver pendent or something worth tens of thousands of pounds, but it means as much to someone who spends hundreds or thousands, and we try to give everybody the same level of friendly, very knowledgeable service. We are always on hand to guide and advise.” Next door, the contemporary TC2 compliments the original Thurlow Champness with a wide range of silver jewellery, including lines from Thomas Sabo, Links of London and Lovelinks. As with the original Thurlow Champness, it’s the designs that entice but the commitment to providing supportive, personal service is what continues to keep this family business at the heart of its community.

www.thurlowchampness.com the best of Suffolk

Debenham Debenham is close to the source of the River Deben and appears to derive its name from Old English words meaning the village in a deep valley

A Roman settlement And a great history of success

It has been described as ‘unspoilt without being a showcase,’ which is pretty much spot on. The River Deben has its source here and settlers have been around since Roman times. East Anglia’s Kings are said to have occasionally held court here, and Blood Field, on the outskirts, is apparently named after a great battle against the Danes. The market cross (later converted to a school) and surviving 14th-century timber-framed merchants’ houses at the heart of what is now a conservation area show that this was also a major centre for the wool trade. In the 18th century dairy production held much sway hereabouts before pasture gave way to more arable farming. The railway never got here, but the village does have one of the first purpose-built Victorian police houses in the country. Today’s high school, leisure and youth centres are proof that this is a living and breathing community.

Follow the signs to the Teapot Pottery for a fun-filled exploration of the way the national drink has combined with people’s passion for collectables. Not only can you enjoy the mad designs you can stay and paint your own at the ceramic café. En route to or from Debenham, several other places may catch your eye. Towards Stowmarket, Stonham Barns has every species of British owl plus various other birds of prey on show. Also on site is a variety of country shopping with a choice of crafts, gifts, clothing and furniture. Not to mention golf, crazy putting and a restaurant. Towards Ipswich, another worthwhile detour is Helmingham Hall, where you can visit the park and stunning gardens of the Tollemache family’s moated Tudor house. No less a gardening authority than Alan Titchmarsh counts this among his favourites. The house is not open to the public.

SUFFOLK DOG DAY – HELMINGHAM HALL GARDENS JuLy EAST SUFFOLK COUNTRY SHOW – HELMINGHAM HALL GARDENS SEPTEMbEr 18

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Felixstowe Felixstowe is one of Suffolk’s larger coastal towns, enjoying a long stretch of coastline and a reputation for little rain and lots of sunshine

Don’t miss the ferry A seaside town with a fort and a port It succeeds in blending elements of traditional seaside – sandy beach, pier amusements, ice-cream, candy floss, serried rows of beach huts – with daily life as a fair-sized centre of population with a huge modern container port on its doorstep. A look out to sea soon reminds you of the traffic that today makes Felixstowe one of Europe’s biggest and busiest container ports. A visit to the dockside is fascinating and brings you also to the local museum and to the historic Landguard Fort which for centuries has been guarding this vulnerable river entrance from would-be invaders. This area also supports an important coastal nature reserve. Back in the town centre the mix of shops along and beyond the main shopping street embraces national chains as well as some enterprising and

intriguing independents selling fashion, cookware, second-hand books, flowers and chocolates. There is no shortage of eating places, here or along the front. Or simply sit and enjoy the pretty gardens with their sea-views. There are echoes here of a bygone Edwardian elegance, and it was at a house near here that Mrs Simpson stayed while awaiting the divorce that would rock the British Royal Family and pave the way to the abdication of a King. Felixstowe’s Spa Pavilion is also at this end of town, offering a varied range of year-round entertainment and with its own restaurant overlooking the sea. Continue out of town by the coast road that crosses Felixstowe’s golf course and you will reach the hamlet of Felixstowe Ferry. Here you can take your pick of two good pubs or dine on fish and chips cooked by the ladies in the Ferry

Café – a wonderful institution popular with locals and visitors alike (and where they also serve a hearty breakfast). You can buy fresh fish to take home with you down at the boatyard. Then take a walk out across the expansive countryside, passing the jolly houseboats and mud-flats that border the river and listening out for skylarks as you go. Or, if you want to stay in sight of the sea, skirt the sailing club and get on to the path that heads back towards Felixstowe. From here you can see across the river to Bawdsey Manor, famous for its associations with the development of radar during the Second World War. A small passenger ferry travels the short distance between Felixstowe Ferry, Harwich and Bawdsey Quay and in summer crabbing is a popular pastime from the jetties.

HISTORIC VEHICLE RALLY | ROTARY FUN RUN May | EAST OF ENGLAND TENNIS TOURNAMENT JuLy FELIXSTOWE CARNIVAL AND FAIR auguST | ART ON THE PROM SEPTEMbEr the best of Suffolk

furniture • lighting • soft furnishings ª¦¡¬ª È ¤¡ ¬¡¦ È «§ ¬ ª¦¡« ¡¦ « fabric¢ ¯ ¤¤ ª± È ««§ª¡ « È ¡ ¬« & paint • jewellery • accessories • gifts

Esme’s House Esme’s House offers a range of high quality interior design products, homewares and crafts that will excite and inspire each and every customer. BEspokE curtains, Blinds, soft furnisHing and furniturE

Bridge street framlingham ip13 9aJ telephone: 01728 724 224 open 9.30 – 5.00 Monday to saturday

The Lemon Tree Bistro offers a relaxed dining experience in the heart of the market town of Framlingham. Nestled between Market Hill and Framlingham’s 13th century castle, the restaurant prides itself on its excellent service, warm atmosphere and great value; offering superb food with a seasonal menu using locally sourced ingredients. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10am - 2pm, 6pm - 9pm (Monday’s during summer holidays)

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01728 621 232 booking@thelemontreebistro.com www.thelemontreebistro.com

Framlingham Recently voted one of the best places to live in Britain, Framlingham has been described as ‘the essence of the English market town’

Ancient castle ramparts

A fortification of royalty, power and status

Steeped in history, its biggest visitor attraction is its wonderful 12th-century castle, which could have stepped from a children’s picture book and is one of the finest surviving examples of its kind you will see anywhere. Built by Roger Bigod, one of the Earls of Norfolk, it has been adapted and used as many things over the centuries, including a poor-house and a court. Today it is in the care of English Heritage and hosts a programme of events and re-enactments that greatly enhance a visit. The castle also contains a small museum of fascinating domestic and agricultural bygones amassed by local collector Harold Lanman, along with photographs and pictures and a complete

collection of the Framlingham Weekly News from 1859 to 1938. It is here, too, that you can find echoes of a clockmaking industry that once made Framlingham tick. Once you have ‘done’ the castle, head for the Market Square which forms part of a conservation area at the heart of this thriving community. Here you will find quality shops to explore and eateries that range from a café to a coaching inn. The mixture of independent retail is happily traditional and caters for the needs of the locals as well as for visitors keen to spend their money on something to take home. On your way home, pay a visit to The Crockery Barn, situated on the B1077 towards Ipswich.

A quick tour of the town includes everything from a ducking pond and Tudor almshouses to a Victorian pillarbox, which is still in use. Also not to be missed is the beautiful church of St Michael’s with its magnificent tombs and effigies. The area surrounding the castle, Framlingham Mere, is another Bigod legacy and makes for a lovely walk. It provides a haven for wildlife as well as offering views of the castle and of Framlingham College, a private school founded in memory of Queen Victoria’s husband Prince Albert in 1864. Former pupils include the artist Alfred Munnings.

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ThE C rown built in 1553, The Crown occupies a commanding position overlooking Market hill in the historically fascinating town of Framlingham. The expansive grade ii listed building offers a bar of great character, a restaurant serving delicious seasonal dishes and 14 well-appointed en-suite bedrooms. in the winter log fires are lit and in the summer months a sheltered courtyard offers a delightful respite from the tourist trail. a converted stables function room is also available.

The Crown Market hill, Framlingham iP13 9aP 01728 723521 mail@framlinghamcrown.co.uk www.framlinghamcrown.co.uk

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Come and enjoy a morning coﬀee and delicious homemade cakes, a light lunch or afternoon tea. All food lovingly prepared on the premises using local ingredients wherever possible. Paddy & Scott’s coﬀee and Teapigs teas. Celebration cakes made to order.

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Hadleigh One of the East Anglian towns that derived its prosperity from its wool and cloth industries. It has a 15th-century timber-framed Guildhall and many fine examples of timber and brick listed buildings

A perfect little town Make a date with history in Hadleigh

To get a sense of its historic heyday you need look no farther than the main street, where timber-framed houses and decorative plasterwork – often conveniently dated – soon establish that this was once a town grown rich, like nearby Lavenham and Long Melford, on the proceeds of wool and cloth. Seek out St Mary’s Church, which understandably attracted the artistic attentions of both Gainsborough and Constable (Turner, too) and you will also find the town’s picturesque timberframed Guildhall and Tudor redbrick of the tower of what was to have been Archdeacon Pykenham’s grandiose Deanery (the rest never got built). Agriculture also underpinned the local economy and regular livestock sales were once held in the marketplace. You will find the restored Corn Exchange nearby, now used as council offices. The town’s long High Street presents an intriguing mix. Literary types can idle over books new and second-hand, there is a shop with everything a doll-lover could need, and others to tempt those with a weakness for shoes – or sweets! There is a deliciously tiny delicatessen, and one of the bigger premises belongs to that rare bird an independent hardware store, where you can buy everything from a sit-on mower to a saucepan. Market Day is Friday and the town is usually bustling on a Saturday. A choice of pubs, restaurants and cafés cater for most of the casual visitor’s needs. And if it is a bigger culinary experience you are looking for, then that is here, too, in the shape of an innovative local business offering cookery courses. A stroll around some of the back streets will give you a better idea of the size and scope of what is clearly a community-focused town with much

THE HADLEIGH SHOW May | HADLEIGH ART TRAIL oCTobEr

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to offer the tourist (rather than the other way around). On a nice day, that stroll should definitely take in Toppesfield Bridge (one of Suffolk’s oldest) and the town’s pleasant Riverside Walk – with a picnic perhaps. The River Brett, which winds its way from the north edge of the town, goes on eventually to join the River Stour in Constable Country.

Between Hadleigh and Sudbury lies Boxford, a pretty village with a stream running through and an attractive 17thcentury church nestling beside the village school. Its timber-framed pub, the Fleece, is famous for hosting jazz gigs that have turned this medieval village into a Mecca for music-lovers. More famous names than you can shake a stick at have performed here since the club started, almost by accident, back in 1993, and it is worth checking out the programme (and the availability of tickets) if you plan to be there on a Friday night.

Designer Home Heating 01473 828914 bev@nevelli.com www.nevellidesignerradiators.co.uk 12 High Street • Hadleigh Ipswich • Suffolk • IP7 5AP

WINNERS OF THE BEST NON-AGRICULTURAL TRADE STAND AT THE 2012 SUFFOLK SHOW We have exhibited at the Suffolk Show every year for the past six years within the Luxurious Lifestyle Pavilion. We showcase our latest ranges in wall-mounted grouted oak framed boards, and tile the floor area with our favourite tile for the year.

We are a dedicated and reliable company that is passionate about tiles and design, delivering unrivalled customer service. We import natural stone, marble, porcelain and ceramic tiles; many are available from stock for immediate delivery. We are confident that we can supply you with exactly what you are looking for from our distinctive range and as an independent company we often beat the price of larger national chains. It’s well worth seeing what we have to offer.

Bromley & Fitch, 50 The High Street, Hadleigh IP7 5AL 01473 829339 www.bromleyandfitch.com

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Halesworth While it is easy to see why visitors focus on the coast when they get this close to Southwold, the little town of Halesworth is worth making a short detour inland to visit

A heavenly haven

With a thoroughfare to inspire all tastes

There is a pleasant shopping centre with interesting and individual shops and businesses focused on everything from fashion and food to furniture. Visitors often remark on the wonderful selection of shops, saying they were not aware such places still existed, thus making their visit even more memorable. There is also a market every Wednesday. The town can be reached by rail as well as by road, and if you arrive by train your very first port of call should be the town’s museum, housed at the station. Not far from here is The Cut, a vibrant local arts centre providing space for dance, drama, film, exhibitions and music, all housed in a converted Maltings with its own café. Halesworth packs a lot of history. Dating from Saxon times, the town’s population doubled in the 17th century,

by which time it could boast various coaching inns and taverns like the Angel and White Hart, which are still very much in evidence. In the 19th century it became a major centre for brewing and malting, and wherries would have sailed up to Halesworth’s quay from Blythburgh and Southwold. The last such trip was in 1882. You can still locate the house where local maltster and keen botanist Sir William Hooker lived, and where his son Joseph was born. If you are wondering where you have heard the name before, the plant-hunting father and son eventually became consecutive directors of Kew Gardens in London during Queen Victoria’s reign. Rather more somberly it was in Halesworth in 1862 that Victorian policeman, Ebenezer Tye,

was murdered. The man convicted of the crime was the last person to be publicly hanged in Suffolk. Coming up to date, Halesworth’s Gig in the Park, held in early August, is a major event on the music festival scene. At the end of August is the renowned Halesworth Antique Street Market organised by The British Heart Foundation. The annual ‘Thoroughfare’ takes place towards the end of June. It is a big food, drink and crafts fair that attracts thousands of visitors and helps to raise funds for local causes.As well as its park, Halesworth has the Millennium Green, created from 44 acres of grazing marsh close to the town centre. Here, if they are lucky, nature lovers may catch a glimpse of a kingfisher, an otter or a water vole.

HIGHTIDE FESTIVAL May | GIG IN THE PARK | ANTIQUES STREET MARKET auguST HALESWORTH ARTS FESTIVAL oCTobEr 26

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World Land Trust’s Wildlife and Landscapes Art Gallery celebrates the natural world at home and abroad Featured artists have included Andrew Haslen (Winter Thrushes shown left), Jason Gathorne-Hardy, Bruce Pearson, Andrew Squire and Steve Cale. Sculptures by Roger Hardy and David Cemmick and photographs by Joe Bunni. The gallery also has a selection of very interesting and decorative nineteenth century hand-coloured prints and a unique stock of original watercolour illustrations by Bruce Pearson. Books and cards on sale. Browsers are welcome and please ask for information on the World Land Trust’s conservation activities.

Gallery opening times: Monday to Friday: 10am – 5pm 3 Bridge Street, Halesworth, Suffolk IP19 0AT. Email: gallery@worldlandtrust.org Exhibitions change regularly to tie in with local events so keep an eye on the Gallery website

www.worldlandtrust.org/gallery

Set in 190 acres of stunning undulating countryside...

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Ipswich Ipswich is one of the fastest-growing and changing places in the East of England

Historic port and town With an exciting Waterfront development

The Waterfront is fast becoming the place to be, redevelopment here has gone on apace. With the attractive Victorian Custom House surviving as a centerpiece, there are tempting bistros, bars and an art gallery to explore alongside the smart apartments, a classy hotel and busy marina. In addition, to a prestigious dance-house for the region and university. The port of Ipswich has been an important one since Anglo Saxon times and the ships that sail up river under the

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massive span of the Orwell Bridge still include commercial traffic as well as pleasure craft and the increasing number of private yachts that moor up here. River trips are available. Check out St Nicholas Street that runs between the Waterfront and the town centre for small independent shops, restaurants and bars. The Buttermarket and Tower Ramparts shopping centres flank the main street in the town centre, and it is here you will find most of the usual high street names,

plus pubs, coffee shops and wine bars. Do call in at the grand Victorian-built Town Hall and the contemporary Ipswich Art School Gallery in High Street where you will find exhibitions of contemporary visual and decorative arts, crafts and community history. Entry is free to both. An outdoor market is held outside the Town Hall on the Cornhill on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Not far from the railway station is Ipswich Town Football Club, home of the Blues.

Special Light Lunch Menu Situated on the historic waterfront of Ipswich

Bistro on the Quay Wherry Quay, Ipswich, Suffolk IP4 1AS Tel: 01473 286677 www.bistroonthequay.co.uk

Situated just yards from, Ipswich High Street, Arlingtons is a buzzing brasserie style restaurant and cafe bar. Innovative French bistro cooking, traditional English catering, quick bites and daily specials – we cater for everyone in our eye-catching central Ipswich restaurant. With seating for 140 upstairs, a Frenchthemed café downstairs, and the well stocked deli for your take home treats, Arlingtons Brasserie is Ipswich's most interesting restaurant by far. Come and find out more about our unique historic building. We even have free car parking after 6pm! Open Monday to Sunday 8am – 11pm.

01473 230293

enquiries@arlingtonsbrasserie.co.uk Arlingtons brasserie restaurant and café bar 13 Museum Street, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 1HE

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Ipswich is rich in history – not all of it immediately obvious. A guided tour is your best bet, and you can pick up details from the Tourist Information Centre, housed in St Stephen’s Church, one of five redundant medieval churches that are gradually finding new and interesting uses. Nearby, in the Buttermaket, is the lovely timber-framed Ancient House with its elaborate exterior plaster carvings. It is worth taking a look inside– it is an outlet for Lakeland. A short walk from the centre brings you to Christchurch Park, an unexpectedly vast green space right in the middle of town which comes complete with its own Tudor mansion, children’s play area, arboretum, tennis courts, bowling green and even a croquet lawn. Lots of events are held here including a Music in the Park day which is part of Ip-art, the town’s lively and expanding annual arts festival fortnight in June and July. Christchurch Mansion is run by the local museum service and has periodroom settings and a gallery displaying the town’s renowned collection of paintings by Gainsborough and Constable. Ipswich Museum, sited in the High Street, also has much to see, including a life-size recreation of a woolly mammoth and a Victorian natural history collection complete with (real) 17ft giraffe in a towering glass case. On the edge of town is the volunteer-run Transport Museum.

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Lavenham, Kersey and Monks Eleigh Lavenham claims to be England’s finest medieval town. It is easy to see how it must have looked in the prosperous Middle Ages, with most of the buildings dating from between 1400 – 1500

Picture perfect!

Tudor timbers and a medieval wool trade The older buildings are to be found around the marketplace where once they held bear-baiting contests. Lavenham’s 16th-century Guildhall is now owned by the National Trust, and on your travels you should also find a Great House (now a hotel) and a Little Hall. The Wool Hall is another half-timbered treasure and it does not take long to see how the Crooked House (now an art gallery) got its name. The magnificent Church of St Peter and St Paul has the tallest tower in the county, and as you might expect, is one of the best ‘wool churches’ in Suffolk. Guided walks are regularly available and will introduce you to all this and more. Inquire also about audio tours. In among the streets of half-timbered cottages and fine town houses lie a variety of interesting and attractive gift and china shops, including some you may not expect (like the one featuring

knitwear from Peru!) There are booksellers and a whole collection of lovely and lively art galleries in which to browse and buy. And enough tearooms, coffee shops, restaurants and hotels to prevent you from going at all hungry or thirsty. On a sunny day it is difficult to think of a more idyllic spot to peoplewatch than from a pavement table. Despite its tourist appeal, do not imagine that Lavenham is preserved in aspic. The local community is very much alive as you will discover if you arrive on August Bank Holiday Monday. The picturesque and perenniallyappealing village of Kersey is always worth a detour, whether you combine it with a trip to Lavenham or set out to reach it from nearby Hadleigh or Boxford. However you come upon it, the chances are that you will instantly recognise the scenery from a hundred

LAVENHAM LITERARY FESTIVAL novEMbEr

the best of Suffolk

calendars, photographs or paintings. Lined with thatched cottages and tiled and half-timbered houses, its steep main street leads down from the church at the top to the ford or water-splash at the bottom, which is seemingly always attended by requisite ducks paddlepatting about, waiting to have their pictures taken. Between Lavenham and Kersey lies the beautiful village of Monks Eleigh. The 14th-century flintstone church looks down over the picturesque village green which is boarded by a collection of fine, typical Suffolk thatched cottages. For a small village, Monks Eleigh has two fantastic destinations to visit. The Swan Inn, renowned for its awardwinning cuisine, and Bridge Farm Barns, where you can stop for a traditional cream tea or light lunch and browse the wonderful array of unusual products, gifts and crafts on show in the barns.

The Lion House Gallery An artist-led Gallery in the heart of medieval Lavenham showcasing the best in original arts and crafts from East Anglia and beyond...

Opening hours: Mon, Tues, Fri, Sat & Sun 10.30 - 5.00pm

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12 High Street, Lavenham Suffolk CO10 9PR Tel. 01787 249616

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Gallery

The gallery was established in 1988 and specialises in paintings and sculpture by 20th Century and contemporary artists depicting wildlife and the countryside. Including artists like Eric Ennion, Peter Scott, Harry Becker and George Soper.

Opening Times Monday to Saturday 10 am - 4.30 pm Sunday 2 pm - 4.30 pm 98-99 High Street Lavenham Suffolk CO10 9PZ 01787 248562

www.wildlifeartgallery.com

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Long Melford, Cavendish and Clare Many of Suffolk’s historic good looks – fine churches and beautiful old buildings – date back to the days when its villages and towns grew rich on the cloth and wool trade

A charming trio

Long on charm and historic interest Long Melford is a case in point. Not only does its parish church dominate the village in spectacular style, it still has not one but two great Tudor Halls to choose from. Both are open to the public. Melford belongs to the National Trust, Kentwell is privatelyowned and has made a specialism of ‘living history’ recreations. Long Melford certainly lives up to its name. There are nearly three miles of it and its broad main street is edged with façades that allow you to trace architecture down the ages – Tudor, Georgian and Victorian all supporting a mix of dwellings, shops, inns and restaurants Shopping is distinctly upmarket. And it is not all antiques. Come here also to dip into sumptuous interior design, Italian shoes, books, art and pottery. Renowned for its eating out,

Long Melford has some fine places to lunch or dine and foodies will have a field day. Pretty as a picture, nearby Cavendish has long enjoyed a popularity with the photographers who scour the country for idyllic scenes of English country life. Hard though it is today to imagine either of these genteel villages in turmoil, Long Melford and Cavendish were in the thick of the Peasants’ Revolt in 1381, led by neighbouring Sudbury. Chief Justice of the day was Sir John Cavendish, a local man who lost considerable popularity through the affair and who (or so the story goes) hung on to the door handle of Cavendish church in a (vain) bid to avoid his own dose of summary justice. You can still see the very handle. Cavendish is not preserved in the past, however, and the lovely church and charmingly-grouped pretty pink,

LONG MELFORD STREET FAIR | CLARE PRIORY CRAFT FAIR CLARE SUMMER HORTICULTURAL AND PRODUCE SHOW JuLy 34

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thatched cottages on the green are just part of a village community that still has a small primary school, and can offer a choice of welcoming hostelries. While you are in this part of Suffolk, be sure to call in on nearby Clare. It packs a lot of history for such a small town, and has some excellent local shops and watering holes. A town trail will take you around the chief sights and sites. Look out for the Ancient House, which houses a tiny museum. Clare Priory, founded in 1248, is the mother house of Britain’s Augustinian Friars and in use as a religious retreat, but the grounds and Priory ruins are open to the public. And do not miss wonderful Clare Castle Country Park where you can see what is left of the old stone keep, stretch your legs, or follow the history trail.

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A welcoming gallery in a picturesque village, Lime Tree Gallery promotes Fine Art and Glass, specialising in contemporary Scottish artists. The gallery has built a national reputation for showing colourful and painterly works by established and exciting new artists. Ranging from the traditional to the modern, the figurative to the abstract, exhibitions are complemented by individual glass pieces from Britain and Sweden. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5pm or by appointment.

Chapel Maltings Little Saint Marys Long Melford 01787 379287

Lime Tree Gallery, Lime Tree House, Hall Street Long Melford, Suffolk CO10 9JF. Tel: 01787319046

www.limetreegallery.com

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Newmarket There is no getting away from the fact that the thing that brings most visitors to Newmarket is horse racing. But if your only visit here is made on a busy race day you will not see the town as the locals see it

Plenty to bet on

An historic equine legacy and the sport of kings

If you happen to drive in from the right direction and at the right time of day, it is not at all unusual to pass a string of horses being ridden to or from exercise on the gallops. You may even have to stop to let them cross the road. On a fine and slightly misty morning it is like watching a painting by Degas come to life. Shopping starts at the pretty little clock tower and stretches all the way down the main street. Here you can take your pick from bargain outlets to traditional stores – with enough in between to keep most people interested. Fashion shops cater across the board, and while you can certainly find a racegoing outfit, fancy footwear or a frilly brolly (as insurance against the weather on ladies’ day perhaps) it is not only the racing fraternity who come here to shop. Newmarket sausages, made to historic and closely-guarded recipes, are a local delicacy and something to take home with you (although you can also find them on sale on the internet these days).

NEWMARKET FESTIVAL JuLy

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There are restaurants, pubs and hotels catering to different pockets, tastes and clientele – whether they have just won a fortune or spent one! Eating out can meet a choice of tastes, ranging from an upmarket pizza to a celebration curry. Coffee and teashops plug the gap. You cannot really come to Newmarket and ignore its unique history and connections with racing. To find out more about Newmarket’s raison d’être visit the National Horseracing Museum which is easy to find and also has its own shop and café. Take time, too, to walk along Palace Street and see the carefullyrestored 17th-century Palace House, which was King Charles II’s royal residence when he paid his not-infrequent visits here to indulge his passion for racing. Be aware, too, that Newmarket racecourse is now the venue for some very big rock and pop concerts during the summer racing season.

The National

Horseracing

Museum

Discover the stories of racing – the people, the horses and the history. From the early royal origins of the Sport of King’s at Newmarket to its modern-day heroes, explore the collections and take a look behind the scenes of the dynamic and colourful world of horseracing. Practical Gallery Ride the horse simulator and experience the excitement and energy of a race. Understand what it is like to be a real jockey and dress up in your very own racing silks. Talk to our Practical Gallery staff and hear what life is like as stable lad, jockey or trainer – straight from the horse’s mouth!

Shop & Café Open all year, our shop stocks fun and imaginative horse racing and horse related gifts. There is also an extensive range of prints, paintings and sculptures. The licensed café serves a fantastic selection of hot and cold dishes freshly prepared onsite. Admission to the café, garden and shop is free.

Equine Tours Equine classic tours are available for individuals, groups and coach parties.

To find out about the museum opening times, visit our website or telephone. The National Horseracing Museum & Tours 99 High Street Newmarket Suffolk CB8 8JH Telephone: 01638 667333 Email: admin@nhrm.co.uk

www.nhrm.co.uk the best of Suffolk

Lady Florence River Cruise Restaurant What could be more delightful to contemplate than a leisurely and peaceful few hours viewing the beautiful area of Orford Ness from the river while fine-dining aboard the former Admiralty MFV supply boat, the Lady Florence? The 50ft Lady Florence carries 12 passengers in spacious comfort, so you might want to make up a party of your own, or join up with others for a brunch, lunch, dinner or sunset cocktail supper cruise. Cruises operate all year round, regardless of weather and tides, with a cosy coal fire in winter. An informative commentary, bringing the fascinating area to life, is given throughout all Lady Florence cruises. This mysterious, historic and unearthly part of Suffolk could not be seen in more apt or comfortable circumstances than from aboard the Lady Florence, cruising the calm waters within the Rivers Alde and Ore for either two-and-a-half or three-and-a-half hours. On a brunch cruise (9.30am-noon), a three-course American-style meal is served, including hash-brown potatoes and hot American muffins and apple pie and cream. The cruise operates all year round. During the three-and-a-half hour à la carte lunch (noon-3.30pm) and dinner (4.00-7.30pm) cruises, Lady Florence meanders upriver, past Aldeburgh to within sight of Iken and Snape. She returns past Havergate Island, the RSPB’s

bird sanctuary famous for the elegant and graceful avocet, the RSPB’s logo, and the National Trust’s 10 mile length of atmospheric Orford Ness to Shingle Street, where the river enters the North Sea in all the drama of its racing tides, raging surf and barren shingle banks, the inspiration of writers and artists for centuries. In September, October and March, when it is not light enough for the dinner cruise, the romantic sunset cocktail supper cruise operates from 4.00 - 6.30pm. Recognising that appetites on the water are sharp, and with a strong commitment to local seasonal food, menus include smoked mackerel pâté, honey-baked ham and loganberry and apple crumble, all prepared freshly to order on board. Orford boasts two famous smokehouses and a renowned butcher. A fully-stocked bar is open throughout the cruises, including a selection of fine South African wines imported directly from the Cape vineyards. In the EADT Tourism Awards in 2009, Lady Florence River Cruise Restaurant was Winner of the Best Day Out in Suffolk Award, the only category voted for by members of the public rather than industry professionals. In 2008, Lady Florence was a Finalist in the Best Day Out category and Winner of the Leisure and Recreation Award.

Booking information, colour leaflets and gift vouchers are available. You can watch a short video clip of all three cruises filmed on board Lady Florence during actual live customer cruises on the website. Telephone: 07831 698 298 Email: info@lady-florence.co.uk www.lady-florence.co.uk 38

Orford The journey from Woodbridge or Melton to Orford is a pleasant one, and all the better for showing off a different Suffolk landscape of forest and heath

A hamlet with a heritage High towers and fabulous seafood The village itself is a delight and will not disappoint whether you opt to stretch your legs or head for the nearest hostelry. It is only when you wonder why they built such a big castle keep here that you realise Orford was once a seaport of strategic significance and that, like so much of Suffolk, it has an amazing history. A couple of centuries ago someone actually wanted to knock the castle down, which would have been a disaster not only for today’s tourist trade but also for shipping which uses it as a landmark. Another fine landmark is St Bartholomew’s Church, where some of Benjamin Britten’s finest works received

their first public performance. Indeed, there is a commemorative statue to Noye’s Flood. For such a small place it is remarkably well-served by restaurants, hotels and pubs, including the Butley Oysterage, which celebrates an obvious local delicacy. And the local smokehouse produces further Suffolk fare you will not want to go home without. Curiously, there is a craft shop, usually with lovely basket-ware outside, which doubles as an exhibition space (upstairs) for underwater studies. It turns out that the owner is a keen diver who has recovered some fascinating treasures off Orford and Dunwich over the years.

The quay is always a lively place, with ferry trips across the river and longer cruises available aboard the Lady Florence. Havergate Island is a bird reserve, popular with waders and the RSPB’s emblematic avocet. Over on the long shingle spit that is Orford Ness it is not just the astonishing wildlife that has attracted human interest. It has been the testing site for various military experiments, including atomic weapons research. Today the National Trust is peacefully in charge. The waters around the Ness can be treacherous, which did not deter the smugglers of yesteryear but did cause numerous shipwrecks until the lighthouse was built.

JAZZ AT THE PAVILION JuLy

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Situated in the quintessential Suffolk village of Orford, The Kings Head has gone from strength to strength under the ownership of Susan and Adrian Searing. Not only have improvements been made the kitchen and accommodation, but the public rooms of the pub are now inviting, cosy and comfortable. The menu offers classic coastal fayre, with the occasional inspired sophisticated recipe thrown in for the more adventurous diner. Broadside battered cod and chips is one legendary offering, while pan-fried seabass with pak choi in a ginger soy broth, lends a more worldly taste to the menu. If you’ve not visited The King’s Head before, summertime is the right time to discover this Suffolk gem.

The Crown and Castle in Orford 21 light-filled modern bedrooms with 21 en-suite modern bathrooms generous accommodation packages dog-friendly garden rooms highly rated lively bistro with popular Monday – Saturday smart pub lunch the best Sunday lunch in the county al fresco lunches on the terrace in summer lovely staff who like looking after customers fabulous riverside, field or forest walking call us on 01394 450205 email us on info@crownandcastle.co.uk browse www.crownandcastle.co.uk

the best of Suffolk

Whether you are looking for contemporary chic or classic comfort, Suffolk Cottage Holidays and Big House Holidaysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; stylish properties are the very best in Suffolk and Norfolk.

Suffolk Cottage Holidays and Big House Holidays In the heart of Suffolk's Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Broads National Park, their coastal and countryside properties are located in some of East Anglia's finest locations. Many have inspirational or quirky designs and there is something to suit every taste and occasion. Whilst Suffolk Cottage Holidays offers cottages and houses sleeping up to 9 people, Big House Holidays provides large top-notch 4 and 5 star accommodation with all the extras for groups of up to thirty people. They have properties throughout East Anglia as well as Lancashire and France, ideal for group holidays, family reunions and corporate breaks. These family-run businesses, started over a decade ago are run by owners, Lizzie and John Hammond, and supported by a fantastic team of helpful, knowledgeable staff who know and love the region. Their flagship offices are located in the centre of Aldeburgh High Street where holidaymakers and visitors can browse their hi-tec information pods, choose a holiday from the portfolio of 200 hand-picked properties or simply research what to do in the area supported by a friendly team of staff who will be happy to help them choose the property best suited to their particular interests, needs and budget.

Yacht House (sleeps 10)

Quay View (sleeps 4)

Yarn Hill Barn (sleeps 6)

An oasis of calm in the very heart of Aldeburgh. The stunning Yacht House, hidden within its own walled gardens, has the look and finish of a world-class private yacht combined with the spaciousness of a bespoke beach house. Children will love its top deck bedrooms and portholes, and adults will adore the comfort of the house along with the ornamental pool, subtle evening garden lighting and decking; perfect for al fresco dining.

In the best location in Orford! Truly magnificent views across the river towards Orford Ness and Havergate Island. Orford, one of the most popular seaside villages in Suffolk, with its picturesque houses, twelfth century church, Norman castle and popular Pump Street Bakery still retains the peace and tranquility, which go to make this area so special. There are two village pubs, quayside cafĂŠ, and a boutique hotel and restaurant.

Situated just a couple of minutes from Snape, Yarn Hill Barn has been lovingly converted to create a spacious and comfortable holiday home for 6 people. The large open-plan sitting room has doors leading out to a secluded suntrap terrace for the long summer evenings and a coal burning stove for cooler nights. All windows look out over the garden which enjoys wonderful views across the open fields to the Alde River with its sandy beach, boats and amazing wildlife.

Suffolk Cottage Holidays and Big House Holidays 152 High Street, Aldeburgh IP15 5AQ Tel: 01728 454 724 and 01394 389 189 www.suffolkcottageholidays.com and www.bighouseholidays.co.uk To find out more about the Suffolk area visit: www.visit-suffolkcoast.co.uk and www.visit-suffolkcountryside.co.uk the best of Suffolk

Castles

Suffolk is blessed with having one of the best-looking castles it is possible to imagine outside a picture book, especially for young visitors who are still at an age to enjoy dressing up and brandishing a wooden sword.

Magical places of times past

ramlingham Castle dates from the 12th century when Robert Bigod (Earl of Norfolk) was busy making his mark on East Anglia. Its fabulous curtain wall and 13 towers look just as a castle should, even if the Tudor chimneys (added later of course, and mostly dummies) give the place an oddly homely look. They are testament to the ‘modernising’ that went on during another important period in the castle’s history. For it was from here that ‘Bloody’ Mary and her supporters rallied on hearing of the death of Edward VIII. The highlight for many visitors has to be a walk around the top of the curtain wall, where there are stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

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It is also fun to circumnavigate the castle from outside the walls, where a deep ditch gives a great sense of scale and will help to wear out any young knights you happen to have with you. Inside the walls there is a surprising amount of space, providing an ideal arena for the various historical events and re-enactments that take place here. The other magical place for castle aficionados of all ages is Orford. Today only its lofty keep remains, but that is impressive enough on a number of counts, including its unusual shape and design. Once you have scaled the mound it sits upon, you can climb up inside the building to the roof and admire the view from 90 feet up. You can also enjoy the legend of the 12th century merman, caught in a fishing net, whose ghost is still said to remain.

If two castles are not enough, there are at least two or three other sites in Suffolk that are worth a visit. At Bungay, you will find the remains of another Bigod legacy, mainly in ruins, but with a visitor centre alongside. And a whole country park surrounds what is left of Clare Castle and Eye Castle, offering a peaceful spot from which to contemplate a far-from-tranquil history (and yes, those Bigods were involved again.) Orford and Framlingham Castles are both in the care of English Heritage; check opening times and admission prices on the website www.english-heritage.org.uk

for music and the arts

A PLACE OF ENERGY AND INSPIRATION

‘Here, following tradition is never a timid choice, because the Aldeburgh tradition, as put in place by its founders ... is so dynamic’ The New York Times The timeless beauty of the Suffolk coastline, its broad horizons, skies and landscapes was a major inspiration for the music of Benjamin Britten and it was here that he, together with his friends Peter Pears and Eric Crozier created the first Aldeburgh Festival. That was in 1948. Since its acclaimed early years, the Festival has flourished, and Aldeburgh’s reputation is now three-fold: as an international venue for outstanding music performances, centred around Snape Maltings Concert Hall, renowned for its superb acoustics; a place where top musicians and emerging musical talents come together, with the first training scheme for professional musicians, the Britten–Pears Young Artist Programme; and also as a focus for wide ranging education and community work. Today, Aldeburgh is the UK’s largest provider of performance training for the world’s young professional musicians, and the courses at the Britten–Pears Young Artist Programme, as well as the Aldeburgh Residencies, keep going from strength to strength. With a recent major capital expansion to create a much expanded music campus, this is an exciting time to experience Aldeburgh’s musical landscape.

For more information about the Aldeburgh Festivals, the Britten–Pears Young Artist Programme, Aldeburgh Residencies, Aldeburgh Education or Aldeburgh Young Musicians, visit www.aldeburgh.co.uk

Snape Strange but true, the little village of Snape was once bigger and more commercially active than its seaside neighbour of Aldeburgh

A magical setting

And a meander through neighbouring villages Occupying an important bridging place on the River Alde, it has a long and fascinating history stretching back to Anglo Saxon and even Roman times. Nowadays it is best-known as a major centre for the musical arts, and it is here that the world famous Aldeburgh Festival, founded by Benjamin Britten and Peter Pears, has its hub. But it is not just at festival time that Snape’s converted Maltings merit a visit. A major visitor attraction, it comes as no surprise that this monument to Victorian enterprise was one of the largest of its kind when founder Newson Garrett drew up his plans. Today, a whole complex has grown up around the famous concert hall, opened in 1967 by the Queen (who had to do it all again a few years later after a devastating fire).

Spread out over the site you will find a collectors’ centre crammed with bygones and antiques; a fabulous house and garden store; stylish outlets for country clothing and children’s things; a craft shop; an art gallery and a shop selling cards and books. There is a café, too. The setting for all this is perfectly lovely with views out over the river and marshes to Iken, well complemented by a Barbara Hepworth sculpture in the foreground. There are very good local pubs serving food, and the concert hall has a restaurant and wine bar attached. Heading back towards the A12, it is worth calling in at the Friday Street farm shop and tearooms at Farnham, where they sell a surprisingly wide range of goods and produce.

THE ALDEBURGH FESTIVAL OF MUSIC AND THE ARTS JunE | SNAPE PROMS 30 JuLy – 29 auguST 2011 ALDEBURGH FOOD AND DRINK FRINGE FESTIVAL 23 SEPTEMbEr – 8 oCTobEr 2011 the best of Suffolk

Southwold With its signature lighthouse, pier and colourful beach huts, Southwold is often depicted as the sort of old-fashioned seaside that everyone thought had vanished

Suffolk’s coastal jewel Sophistication with a nostalgic edge While it is true that this compact and pretty seaside town evokes nostalgia for simple pleasures and a time gone by, it has also become increasingly trendy. And although simple tastes are still catered for, there are a lot more sophisticated things going on – particularly when it comes to shops, restaurants, hotels and pubs. If you have not visited Southwold before, there are a number of must-dos: Sample a glass of Adnams beer within sight – and smell – of the famous brewery, situated in the very heart of the town; visit the beautiful Church of St Edmund and see Southwold Jack (also on the wall outside the brewery); speculate on the going rate for one of the brightlypainted beach huts; look for amber on

the beach (or just go to the Amber Shop and look at it there); visit the pier; stand on Gun Hill beside the ancient cannons and imagine you are watching the historic battle of Sole Bay out at sea; drop into the Sailors’ Reading Room; walk down to the harbour; go shopping. Traditional and long-established favourites rub shoulders with newer arrivals in the main shopping street, where you will find shoes, quality clothes and fashion, art, souvenirs, bric-a-brac, gifts, interior design accessories for the home and a traditional sweet shop! There are good local food shops, too, including a delicatessen, butcher and two greengrocers who cater for the permanent residents as well as the holiday-makers who fill the town in

LATITUDE HENHAM PARK JuLy | WAY WITH WORDS novEMbEr

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summer. Adnams also has its wine cellar and kitchen store here. Southwold Museum is a little gem. The Southwold Summer Theatre season runs from July through to midSeptember, and the small but perfectlyformed Electric Picture Palace has a programme of films old and new. There are plenty of places to take coffee, tea or lunch and some fine places to dine. Down at the harbour there is even an eatery in a glorified fish shed where you can take along your own wine to dine on the latest catch! There are walks or cycle rides to be taken over the marshes, along the beach (in both directions) and across the common, where you will also find the golf course – so listen out for cries of “Fore!”.

Summer: open from 9.00am winter: open from 10.00am admin@southwoldpier.co.uk www.southwoldpier.co.uk 01502 722105 open for evening meals, please call to check availability

f you are a fan of piers (and, ideally, no seaside should be without one) allow Southwold Pier to introduce you to a different level. Lovingly renovated and restored when others of its kind were struggling or being swept away, it is an object lesson in how to put 623 feet of tradition to effective 21st-century use. Nostalgia meets new waves. From its family-oriented eateries and amusement arcade to its coastal shopping opportunities, the pier is a perfect reflection of all things Southwold. Our newly refurbished Boardwalk Family Restaurant now has the delightful Sole Bay Balcony Terrace on which you can enjoy a quiet drink and our locallysourced home cooked food (maybe a squid & mackerel burger in homemade ciabatta) whilst dreaming of your ideal Beach Hut! There are two beautiful new paintings by leading East-Anglian artist James Dodds of a Southwold Punt and Yawl. Child-friendly, we serve early suppers from 5.30pm along with dinner from April to October. The pier’s choice of eateries offers a similar mix of traditional fare and flair which can take you from a hearty breakfast through morning coffee to lunch, high tea and supper. Enjoy a delicious plate of oven roasted cod served on warm chorizo, tomato and butterbeans, or simply stick to good oldfashioned fish and chips (which can also be taken away). Calling all Coeliacs – don’t forget the first Saturday of every month is our Gluten-Free Batter Day. We also serve

Gluten-Free cakes and ice-cream cones. Along the pier, and farther out to sea as it were, that seaside essential, a windbreak, has cleverly been built in so that The Clockhouse customers can enjoy the alfresco experience even on more bracing days whilst enjoying a glass of something and a half pint of locally smoked prawns. Homemade stonebaked pizzas with out favourite toppings are available in the evenings throughout the summer. It is this variety and range that makes the pier a perfect one-stop lunch and shopping destination in and out of season – important when you consider that the pier is open 364 days a year (don’t go on Christmas Day). What is there to do besides shopping and eating? As well as the arcade games there is Tim Hunkin’s ‘Under the Pier Show’ featuring famously unique handmade machines that are guaranteed to raise a smile. And a thriving fishing club ensures that the anglers casting their lines for slip sole, mackerel and bass provide their own end-of-the-pier show. If you can’t tear yourselves away from Southwold, we have just the answer: Don’t go home! Stay in the fantastic Marston House, minutes from the beach, shops and Pier. When you stay we give you a 10% discount voucher for use on the Pier – now that’s the perfect holiday.

Check our website for more details www.southwoldpier.co.uk To sign up for our e-newsletter please email admin@southwoldpier.co.uk

The Anchor atWalberswick Walberswick is a charming seaside village across the estuary from Southwold. It’s a village with a thriving and active local community, who put on all types of events from Red Nose Weekend, plays, fetes, beer festivals and crabbing championships. The Anchor is an Arts & Craft building, with ten bedrooms of which six are nestled in the garden. These eco-clad cedar chalets, each have their own terrace to enable you to relax, looking out towards the dunes and sea. Rainwater is collected from the roof into sherry butts and whiskey casks for use in the garden. On arriving at The Anchor you can hear the waves breaking on the beach a few hundred yards away. Well-behaved dogs are welcome and there are some wonderful walks; along the beach, by the reed-beds and to Dunwich woods. Sophie and Mark Dorber took over The Anchor in 2004 when they left the White Horse in Parson’s Green, London. They share a love of rustic, earthy food,

good wines and real ales. In August Mark hosts a two-day beer festival in the flint barn on site with live jazz and various musicians. Sophie often cooks ‘al fresco’ on the terrace and is known for her huge delicious paella. Sophie bakes fresh bread daily, which can be bought from the bar. Often locals pop in after their morning swim for a coffee and to buy a baguette on their way home. Locally her brownies are legendary and you will often find these for sale for afternoon tea along with a sticky ginger cake, freshly baked scones or homemade flapjack. When she is not in the kitchen she can be found on the pub’s adjacent allotment, and uses much of the produce in her

menus. Fresh fish is delivered daily and the specials menu is shaped by what is caught that day. Local meat suppliers such as Blythburgh Pork or Red Poll Beef feature heavily. The variety of choice ranges from line caught sea bass to Mediterranean fish stew; pancetta wrapped hake; homemade gnocchi or ravioli to tempura oysters, hand-made lamb burgers or clam chowder. Each dish, including starters and puddings has a suggested wine or beer pairing. The flint barn is perfect for private dining, events or corporate meetings and is equipped with surround-sound, projector and screen.

The anchor, The Street, walberswick iP18 6ua. Tel: 01502 722112 www.anchoratwalberswick.com 48

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Walberswick, Blythburgh and Dunwich Sweeps of marsh, sandy heathland, rich in wildlife, create the backdrop to this corner of Suffolk, much of it protected and designated as an area of outstanding natural beauty

Three coastal treasures An arts heritage village with stylish shopping

Pretty Walberswick, beloved of artists and writers, lies on the coast, across the river from Southwold. You can easily walk between the two, the only decision being whether to cross the Bailey bridge or secure a passage on the tiny foot ferry. Arriving by boat and passing the harbour huts, you can either follow a path

through the sand-dunes to the beach, or continue up the main street to the village green, where you will find lovely crafts and art shops and galleries, a tea shop and visitor centre. There is another good tearoom, with a garden, farther into the village. And some good pubs. Farther along the coast you will find Dunwich â&#x20AC;&#x201C; or what is left of it. Much of the early town famously disappeared under the sea a very long time ago. Most visitors sensibly head for fish and chips by the beach or a pint in the pub while contemplating the enormity of the disappearance of what was once a thriving medieval township. The rot set in after a devastating storm in 1328, when 400 houses and a number of churches were destroyed. Dunwich lost its harbour and its trade to Walberswick and as coastal erosion continued to do its stuff the town was slowly reclaimed by the sea. There is a small museum where you can check it all out.

Dunwich Heath coastal centre and beach is a nature reserve and conservation area owned by the National Trust. There are lovely walks, and families with children can find plenty to do. Maps and further information are available from the converted coastguard cottages where there is also a licensed tea-room and shop. Blythburgh lies a little farther inland, along the River Blyth. You cannot miss its church, sometimes known as the Cathedral of the Marshes. Vastly out of proportion to the size of its surroundings, Holy Trinity manages to distinguish itself in a county full of special churches, and is truly worth a visit. The devil himself is reputed to have called here, hotfooting it from Bungay during the awful storm of 1577 and leaving telltale scorch-marks on the door. The village itself is bisected by the busy A12, church one side, pub the other.

SUFFOLK GAME AND COUNTRY FAIR â&#x20AC;&#x201C; GLENHAM HALL May the best of Suffolk

Woodbridge A centuries-old tradition of boat-building continues down at the quayside where the chief visitor attraction is the picturesque Tide Mill

Delightful riverside views Plenty to discover

A centuries-old tradition of boatbuilding continues down at the quayside where the chief visitor attraction is the picturesque Tide Mill, a rare surviving example of its kind. It was brought back into use as a fully working tide mill last year. The railway station is also at this end of town, as is the swimming pool, cinema and Riverside Restaurant, which will serve meals to fit in with film performances. A pleasant walk with views along the Deben will take you past a childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s play area towards Kysonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hill, now owned by the National Trust, and once a favourite spot of the Victorian landscape painter, Thomas Churchyard. If you keep going you can walk over the hill and all the way round and back into the town centre. Everywhere you go there are interesting streets of pretty houses to explore. In the town centre there is a good selection of specialist shops, many of them independents, selling books, foodstuffs, local provisions, fashion, shoes, gifts, china and furnishings.

There is another good kitchenware shop here, too. The town can also provide some very attractive pubs and restaurants. Recommended coffee stops include one of the bookshops. For centuries, Market Hill was the nucleus of the town and here, you will find the Shire Hall, which is home to the town council and also to a museum dedicated to the Suffolk Punch heavy horse. Here, too, is another very attractive cluster of little shops and tempting eating places. The Shire Hall building dates back to 1575, and the time of Tudor bigwig and local benefactor, Thomas Seckford, whose name lives on in a Seckford Street and the beautiful period Seckford Hall, now a hotel. You can discover more about Thomas Seckford and other famous townsfolk at Woodbridge Museum, which also records the spectacular finds at the nearby Anglo Saxon ship burial site of Sutton Hoo, now in the care of the National Trust.

WOODBRIDGE REGATTA AND RIVERSIDE FAIR June WOODBRIDGE ARTS FESTIVAL August 50

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History of a different kind is to be found at Buttrums Windmill, in Burkitt Road, a restored six-storey tower mill which you may catch sight of as you approach the town. If you are inclined to venture farther afield, there is also much of interest at the Air Museum at nearby Parham, one of a number of former USAF bases positioned in this part of East Anglia during the Second World War.

Chilled Glass of Wine

46 High Street, Wickham Market, Suffolk, IP130QS

Local Suffolk Cider

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Seasonally inspired light lunches

Eclectic treasures from the past

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Te l e p h o n e : 017 2 8 74 6 6 4 2

e-mail:cafe@vintagefortysix.co.uk

Kate Barclay's award-winning images can be viewed or purchased online at: www.katebarclay.co.uk Her work can be viewed at Black Sheep Ltd, 9 Penfold St, Aylsham, Norfolk NR11 6ET where she has a permanent and changing exhibition. Kate also runs one day photography workshops – visit: www.landscapephotographyworkshops.co.uk Kate can be contacted on: 01603 920538 or 07939 937914 email:h kate@katebarclay.co.uk www.katebarclay.co.uk

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Yoxford, Peasenhall and Sibton Head slightly inland from Suffolk’s heritage coast and you will find yourself in an area sometimes known as the ‘Garden of Suffolk’

Two of a kind

On the London to Yarmouth route The delightful village of Yoxford lies at its heart and can be reached by rail as well as by road, providing you realise that the station is actually at nearby Darsham. Yoxford’s pretty main street incorporates a mix of architectural periods and styles, and is a good deal quieter now than it must have been a couple of centuries ago when all the London-to-Yarmouth traffic came this way, providing coaching inns with a roaring trade. Yoxford has a church with a spire and good brasses and there are local shops and the newly refurbished Kings Head pub to enjoy. The village is surrounded by glorious swathes of parkland belonging to no fewer than three big private country house estates, Cockfield Hall among them, and provides an ideal base from which to enjoy unspoilt country walks. This is where Elizabeth I had her cousin Katherine Grey (younger sister of the even more ill-fated Lady Jane) placed

under house arrest following her stretch in the Tower of London. She died soon after and is buried here. Yoxford’s most distinctive feature is that it is home to no less than three antiques outlets. Situated in the heart of the village, Garden House offers excellent value for money, while Suffolk House Antiques caters to the quality end of the trade. Half a mile through the village on the A1120 stands Yoxford Antiques Centre, offering an enormous range and variety of antiques and collectables in light and airy premises to suit all budgets. The courtyard houses a row of brightly painted beach huts, which stock craft goods of all kinds, as well as The Flying Goose Cafe, and there are five acres of gardens and field to enjoy where you can also visit the Centre’s three resident alpacas. A stone’s throw away from Yoxford, the smaller village of Peasenhall is also interesting, not least because it has an

PEASENHALL PEA FESTIVAL MAy | YOXFORD ARTS FESTIVAL August 52

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industrial as well as an agricultural past, having become a major production centre for a new and improved early 19thcentury seed drill invented by one James Smyth. The church is right next door to where the Suffolk Seed Drill Company used to be. Peasenhall, has the eclectic Campaign and today it is very much a foodie village with an excellent local butcher JR Creasey, a classic tearoom and Emmett’s village stores. Trading here since the 1840s, Emmett’s sells all sorts of delicious things but is most famous for its traditionally-made bacon and hams, and in particular its Suffolk black ham. Visitors are welcome not only to buy, but to observe these being produced on site. If you head off towards the coast you will find you are not far from Dunwich, the once great town famously lost to the sea, and Minsmere, the nature reserve run by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds.

Suffolk House Antiques Established over twenty years ago in the pretty village of Yoxford, Suffolk House Antiques has one of the largest selections of high quality early oak and country furniture and associated works of art in the UK. For further information, please visit our website â&#x20AC;&#x201C; www.suffolk-house-antiques.co.uk or contact Andrew Singleton by telephone or email.

Member of the British Antiques Dealers Association

High Street, Yoxford, Suffolk IP17 3EP Tel: 01728668122 Email: as@suffolk-house-antiques.co.uk

www.suffolk-house-antiques.co.uk

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 CafĂŠ. 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 The Granary, Darsham, Suffolk, IP17 3PL, Tel: 01728 668 700 www.smokeandfire.co.uk

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

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The art of relaxed retail… Ding, ding – more often than not the doors are wide open, but sometimes not. “Hi, how’s things? Feel free to have a wander around. There are no ‘no go areas’ on the ground floor and no secret passwords. The kitchen looks a bit like you might be invading private space, but you’re not. We use it to make a brew. If you need any assistance, just yell. There’s a few of us around and someone will soon come and help.” You have tipped into the worlds of Carolyn Smith and Les Rayner, who inhabit, present and, as they say, ‘throw together’ Campaign and The Shed. In an age when ‘throw it away’ is a matter of fact, almost unconscious act of daily life, how refreshing to meander and poke around a pair of establishments where ‘second time around’ are the watchwords and ‘very unhurried’ sums up the atmosphere.

Of course, the artefacts, old and new, are not just thrown together. Far from it. Things may appear to teeter on the point of tumbling (and they do from time to time), but look a bit closer and you can see that an eye is at work. How else could it come about that rust sits contentedly next to fine fabric and a cheap, primary colour plastic comb can hold its own centre stage with mahogany and brass. I don’t know how to do this stuff, but these two do. Whether it’s the bits and bobs in the bottom of an old box, or forgotten ironmongery from the back of a shedland cupboard, or maybe a finely restored English croquet lawn folding chair that you’ve gazed at in the window of Campaign, I urge you to venture inside. There will be a gem to admire, discuss and perhaps purchase. The feel is domestic, sort of ‘way back when’. It’s attainable and very, very friendly.

Finally, don’t miss the garden. If it hits the spot, it will really hit your spot. It’s small, wild and unlooked after in a looked after way. You can visit Campaign and The Shed at Peasenhall on the A1120, three miles inland from Yoxford on the A12 (IP17 2HJ). Opening times are Wednesday to Saturday, sunny Sundays and all through Bank Holiday weekends – 10am to 5pm. Contact numbers are on the door of Campaign and, if closed, it’s not a pain if you care to telephone. Shop Studio and workshops

01728 660550 01728 660238

and The Shed

Across the Borders Suffolk has much to offer, but there is much to be said for venturing farther afield

North, south and west

Journey to the edge, for the best of the rest With its lovely long coastline taking care of the eastern extremities, there is a three-way choice of cross-border terrain as Suffolk meets Essex to the south, Cambridgeshire to the west and Norfolk to the north. In the south west of the county, where Suffolk rubs shoulders with Essex, you can weave your way through beautiful countryside that has links both to Constable and to Gainsborough. Any one of a number of pretty villages will justify a detour. Stoke-by-Nayland, for example, offers appealing pubs and eateries, a lovely church and challenging golf courses. And the historic village of Bures actually straddles the county boundary with children living on the Essex side of the River Stour crossing a footbridge to reach their school in Suffolk. Just over the border into Essex lies the small (some say England’s smallest) town of Manningtree. It enjoys a dubious claim to fame as the place where, in the middle of the 17th century, Witchfinder General Matthew Hopkins began to cast his long shadow.

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With its Georgian façades hiding even older architecture, there are some interesting shops, good pubs and places for tea. Its rail links with London mean this is where many workers start or finish their daily commute. From the train there are attractive views over the river estuary and if you alight at the station here you may be pleased to discover a rather quaint pub-like bar on the platform. Follow the waterside (and the swans) a short distance and you will come to the neighbouring village of Mistley. This area was once at the heart of the brewing industry and evidence of the old maltings and quay can still be seen. Mistley also once had (unrealised) ambitions to turn itself into a spa. The incongruous Mistley Towers (designed by Robert Adam) and Swan Basin in the High Street are pretty much all that remain of this venture. You will find places to eat and drink here, too.

Heading out west in Suffolk it pays to get a little lost and to meander off the beaten track through some of the delightful villages around and beyond Clare and Bury St Edmunds. Many have excellent pubs. Carry on to Newmarket and you will find yourself criss-crossing the border with Cambridgeshire. The county border cuts right across the town and its famous racecourses. Aiming north, the market town of Diss just tips into Norfolk and has its own mere (another name for a lake). Nearby, Scole offers inns and antiques and if you travel a little farther over the border you will find Bressingham Gardens and Steam Museum – a nostalgic delight for train-lovers of any age. The River Waveney provides a natural border with Norfolk and over in the north east, Suffolk encompasses the southern tip of the Broads, a unique stretch of inland waterway eagerly beloved by those who love messing about in boats.

Bressingham a unique day out for all the family

For where else would you be able to ride on a Victorian roundabout, indulge a passion for all things steam-driven, wallow in nostalgia for one of television’s best-loved comedies and glory in gardens that offer a glimpse of horticultural heaven? Add a couple of railways running around and across the site, a genuine old signal box, a museum, restaurant and picnic place, and the mix soon promises something for everyone, young and old alike. Privately owned by the Bloom family. Adrian Bloom and his father Alan each created a six acre garden, the Dell and Foggy Bottom. Together with the other

linking gardens, there are now over 8,000 species and varieties on display. Alan Blooms’s other passion – for steam led to Bressingham becoming home to a fine collection of traction engines and locomotives. The Dad’s Army Collection is another piece of serendipity. Some of Bressingham’s vehicles were used in the much-loved sitcom when it was filmed around Thetford. Bressingham has extended the wartime spirit by recreating Walmington-on-Sea in its museum. Situated close to the town of Diss, Bressingham’s main season runs from Easter to the end of October, with steam and non-steam days throughout.

There is also a special –events programme running throughout the summer. Visitors can ride through the glorious gardens on one of the four working railways or step back in time on the working Victorian steam carousel ‘the Gallopers’, the beautiful painted horses that eternally travel ‘up and down’ and three-abreast around Bressingham’s restored steam carousel. There is always something for all the family at Bressingham. You can even stay as a bed-and-breakfast guest in Alan Bloom’s old home of Bressingham Hall. Or failing that, take home a Bloom’s bloom from the adjacent garden centre.

Bressingham steam Museum & gardens, Low Road, Bressingham, Diss IP22 2AA. telephone: 01379 686900 For more details visit www.bressingham.co.uk or www.bressinghamgardens.com

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Quality Design and Craftsmanship

We've never really considered our fastidious attention to detail as anything other than normal practice â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it's only our customers who've convinced us otherwise over the years. Our insistence to use only the finest hardwoods from managed forests to our 'over and above' specification on all levels have become hallmarks of our work. For example, every hardwood component is individually hand made, our door frame sections are much heavier and more substantial and our windows and doors use multi-locking systems for increased security as standard.

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East Bergholt, Flatford and Dedham There is no doubt at all who this beautiful bit of Suffolk belongs to

A close-up of Constable country Stop off at Dedham Vale and Stour Valley

The artist John Constable was born in East Bergholt in June 1776 and went to school in nearby Dedham. His love for his native countryside, so manifest in his paintings, still defines what many people see in their mind’s eye when they think of a quintessentially English landscape. Even if you have never knowingly seen a single copy of ‘The Haywain’ (and it is hard to imagine how you have avoided it) you will not regret getting better acquainted with Constable Country. You can see Constable’s celebrated river scene, complete with Willy Lott’s Cottage, when you visit Flatford Mill, the area’s biggest tourist attraction. Today it is part of a complex in the care of the National Trust which accommodates a visitor centre and a field studies education centre as well as a teashop and a restored dry dock. A longer walk along the River Stour will

reward those with the time to take it. Before moving on from East Bergholt make a point of seeing St Mary’s Church, where Constable is said to have fallen in love with the rector’s granddaughter, Maria Bicknell. East Bergholt Place garden and arboretum also come highlyrecommended, with the gardens especially lovely in spring and early summer. Follow Constable’s path to Dedham, another of the area’s ancient towns built on the wool trade, which is where the artist went to school. It has some excellent local shops and is well-known for the Art and Craft Centre, housed in a converted Victorian church, where local artists are given a showcase and where shoppers will delight in three floors’ worth of interesting and attractive browsing, plus a vegetarian restaurant and tearoom.

It would be a shame to miss a look inside Dedham’s glorious church, another St Mary’s also with Constable connections. And check to see whether your visit will coincide with opening times of Castle House, a museum and memorial to another famous artist who once lived here – Sir Alfred Munnings. (1878-1959). There is an abundance of pubs and tearooms hereabouts, with some very lovely hotels and restaurants offering some wonderful food. If you cast your net to include other nearby villages, like Nayland and Stoke-by-Nayland, you will definitely be spoilt for choice. Visitors who stray a little farther over the border into neighbouring Essex will find more of interest to enjoy at Manningtree and Mistley.

the best of Suffolk

Outdoors

Cycling A county of gentle hills and leafy country lanes, Suffolk has just about the perfect terrain for cycling. Add to that the numerous excellent cycle paths and routes that weave through its bustling market towns and picturesque villages, complimented by a fabulous array of excellent pubs and cafés serving local foods en route, and it’s an enchanting proposition for everyone regardless of age or endurance.

he more hardened cycling enthusiasts may like to follow the route of the Tour of Britain, which fittingly begins its Suffolk leg in the magnificent four-storey 14th Century Abbey Gate in Bury St Edmunds, definitely one of Suffolk’s jewels in the crown. The route continues through the Medieval Wool Towns taking in Lavenham and Long Melford before passing through County Town, Ipswich, en route to 15th Century Helmingham Hall, family home of the Tollemache family and famous for its five hundred year old deer park and Grade 1 listed Gardens. Moving swiftly on, it then winds through some of Suffolk’s most delectable chocolate box villages including historic Debenham and Eye, before slipping over the border into Norfolk at Diss. Those who favour a less arduous ride should head towards the glorious Suffolk coast. Take the time to explore the Deben Valley with its ancient Anglo-Saxon Burial Ground at Sutton Hoo. Perhaps cycle down to Orford Quay for a pint at

The Kings Head or pop into Aldeburgh for some delicious fish and chips. Alternatively, take a trip to Constable County where you can savour the delights of the Dedham Valley at your own pace. There are also ample opportunities to get off the road: the popular option for families with young children. Thetford Forest on the Suffolk Norfolk border has some of the best mountain bike facilities in the eastern region with miles and miles of way-marked single track and red and black courses. Meanwhile, the Rendlesham Forest Centre, located towards the east of the county, has two excellent off road family cycle trails on sand, gravel and grass. And if you’ve left the bikes at home, don’t despair there are loads of places to hire bikes. Alton Cycle Hire for one is ideally situated on Alton Water near Ipswich, while for the romantics out there Byway Bikes near Darsham on the Suffolk Coast has a fleet of tandems for hire! Visit www.sustrans.co.uk to plan your route. the best of Suffolk

Golf might not be the first thing you associate with Suffolk but it is the ideal location for the game’s enthusiasts to explore the English countryside and, more importantly, to discover some superb courses.

Golf Aldeburgh Golf Club One of the oldest in Suffolk – a heathland course that lies within a mile of the coastline. Established in 1884, it has two courses, the 18-hole championship course and the River course, which is nine holes and more suitable for beginners and high-handicap golfers. Green fee for championship course £75, River course £12.50. Aldeburgh Golf Club Saxmundham Road, Aldeburgh, IP15 5PE. Tel: 01728 452890. Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club One of the oldest courses in England, established in 1880. It was recently voted by Golf World as one of the top 100 courses in England and has great coastal views. There is also a nine-hole, pay-and-play course. Green fee £52 a day, nine-hole course £12. Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club Ferry Road Felixstowe, IP11 9RY. Tel: 01394 286834. Gog Magog Golf Club Established in 1901. Just over the Cambridgeshire border, the club has two excellent courses, situated on the free-draining chalk of the Gog Magog Hills, just south of Cambridge. Green fees from £50. Shelford Bottom, Cambridge, CB22 3AB. Tel: 01223 247626.

the best of Suffolk

Ipswich Golf Club (Purdis Heath) Described as a heathland haven for purists and enthusiasts alike. Its quickdraining terrain means there is no need for temporary tees or greens in the winter. There is a nine-hole course adjacent. Green fee for main course £70 a day, nine-hole course £12 a day. Purdis Heath, Bucklesham Road, Ipswich, IP3 8UQ. Tel: 01473 728941. Newton Green Golf Club An 18-hole course, combining heath and parkland golf on the edge of Constable Country and near the villages of Long Melford, Lavenham and Clare. Green fees from £24. Newton Green, Sudbury, CO10 0QN. Tel: 01787 377217. Halesworth Golf Club Situated just a few miles from the beautiful Suffolk heritage coast and in 190 acres of stunning undulating countryside. Golfers of all abilities are welcomed and facilities include an 18-hole championship golf course and nine-hole pay-and-play course. Green fee £24 a day, nine-hole course £9.00. Bramfield Road, Halesworth, IP19 9XA. Tel: 01986 875567 Royal Worlington & Newmarket Golf Club Founded in 1893, it has been described as the best nine-hole course in England. While this may be debatable, it is a fact that it regularly appears in the top 100 golf course lists of various magazines. Green fees £60. Golf Links Road, Worlington Bury St Edmunds, IP28 8SD. Tel: 01638 712216.

Stoke by Nayland Golf Club Set in 300 acres of picturesque countryside. Established in 1972, it has a 20-bay covered driving range and two 18-hole championship courses. Green fees from £45. Stoke by Nayland Hotel, Golf and Spa, Keepers Lane, Leavenheath, CO6 4PZ. Tel: 01206 262836. Thorpeness Golf Club A picturesque course set among the Suffolk coastal heathland. The course offers a tough challenge for players of all levels. Designed by James Braid in 1922. Green fees from £28 after 3pm. Thorpeness Hotel & Golf Club, Thorpeness, Aldeburgh, IP16 4NH. Tel: 01728 454926. Ufford Park Hotel, Golf & Spa An 18-hole, parkland course spread across 120 acres of unspoilt Suffolk countryside. Facilities include a floodlit, two-tier driving range and 18-hole putting green. Green fee £20-£25. Ufford Park Hotel, Golf & Spa, Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, IP12 1QW. Tel: 01394 383555. Woodbridge Golf Club Two classic heathland courses. The Heath course is a serious golfer’s challenge all year round, while the full-length nine-hole Forest course, is suitable for all standards. Green fee for Heath course £60 a day, Forest £10. Woodbridge Golf Club Bromeswell Heath, Woodbridge, IP12 2PF. Tel: 01394 382038.

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Shooting in Suffolk S

hooting is a very popular pastime all year round in Suffolk. Shooting takes a number of forms, but shotgun shooting is the most popular and diverse. Game shooting is centred on the winter months; roughly from September through to February. On the game side there is rough shooting, pigeon shooting, wildfowling and formal game shooting. Much of the countryside that we enjoy today in Suffolk and throughout the UK has been influenced by game shooting. Many of the rural estates that make our county unique had their woodlands set out with shooting in mind.

MORE THAN JUST A GUNSHOP! A wide range of quality clothing, boots and accessories plus a well-stocked gun room the best of Suffolk

Although game shooting does not appeal to everyone it does have benefits for the countryside and wildlife as a whole. Land where game shooting takes place is tended by a gamekeeper, who feeds the game and protects it from predation, which promotes the wild bird and mammal population in general. Clay pigeon shooting is an all-yearround sport, but is probably busier during the warmer seasons. Within clay pigeon shooting there are various disciplines including sporting, trap and skeet. But broadly speaking, clay pigeon shooting started as a way of simulated game shooting for practice. Today it has evolved into an Olympic event at its highest level, yet it is still a sport that is open to all.

As well as the fresh air and exercise, which can be gained from clay pigeon or game shooting; it is game shooting that also gives access to many parts of the county that you wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t otherwise see. Youngsters and women are making increasing inroads into the shooting field. Closely supervised tuition is obviously a must for those starting in the sport. A thorough understanding of safety when shooting makes the experience that much more enjoyable. For youngsters, an introduction into shooting helps to instil a greater sense of responsibility and trust in themselves. Jason and Kate Harris Trulock & Harris

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CHRysALIs MustO Le CHAMeAu AIgLe BARBOuR sPORtIng HunteR seeLAnD ALAn PAIne HOggs Gun brands including:

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trulock & Harris Ore trading estate Framlingham suffolk IP13 9LL telephone: 01728 724 776 www.trulockandharris.com

the best of Suffolk

Holt’s Auctioneers of ﬁne modern and antique guns Patrick Hockley is Holt’s Auctioneers representative in Suffolk, a keen shooting and hunting man he has been fortunate enough to have enjoyed many days on some of the great shoots throughout the country, including Gurston Down, Whitfield, and Powis Castle & Glen Muick, Scotland. He also arranges shooting days throughout Suffolk and other fine shooting estates in the country. For the uninitiated the idea of selling at auction can be a daunting prospect, but, as he explains, it is actually very straightforward. Holt’s Auctioneers was founded in 1993 by Nick Holt and during the ensuing years has grown to become the dominant auction house in their field. The advantage of an auction is that all sides can rest assured that the price an item sells for is a true reflection of its current market value. The main objective in selling your item is to realise the best possible price. In such a specialised area as antique and modern guns, what Holt’s can offer first and foremost is the world market. Attracting the buyers is vital in achieving a good result and as often as not, this involves the overseas market. By bringing your item to the attention of such an international client base mean you really do achieve the best possible results. Is my gun worth anything? You never know! Value can depend on many factors, some fairly unlikely. It is always worth having a valuation – be it a gun or gun accessory, edged weapon, militaria or vintage fishing tackle. How do I go about getting a valuation or entering something for sale? In the first instance contact Patrick Hockley, who is the consultant for Holt’s here in Suffolk. He will be able to advise the best way forward to suit your

circumstances, be it to book an appointment or to have an idea of value there and then. If a home visit is necessary values are discussed and agreed and a reserve price set, the item(s) are accepted for sale, a receipt given and Holt’s will do the rest, leaving you to do nothing further than await the arrival of a satisfactory cheque following the sale! After the sale you will receive a postsale advice, which informs you how much your item sold for and payment is made approximately three weeks after the sale. What about gun licences and paperwork? Holt’s operate under a Registered Firearms Dealer licence and are fully authorised to accept guns for sale and the procedure for sale is straightforward. What will it cost me? Holt’s operate purely on a commission basis and so receive a percentage of the final selling price. Our rates are competitive and set in relation to the value of the item being consigned to us. Occasionally an item will fail to sell and we would normally encourage you to enter the item in the following sale. However should you elect to take the item back there will be no unsold charges whatsoever, assuming that the item was entered at our suggested estimate.

Patrick can be contacted via the details below for a free, no obligation, valuation. telephone: 01473 277043. Mobile: 0783 3971130. email: patrickhockley@talk21.com Holt’s Auctioneers, Church Farm Barns, Wolferton, norfolk Pe31 6HA www.holtsauctioneers.com

Keepers of the Wild The World Land Trust is saving endangered habitats and their wildlife throughout the world, acre by acre, from their Suffolk base

Capitalising on its two decades of experience, Halesworth based international charity, World Land Trust (WLT), is always exploring exciting and innovative ways of ensuring the survival of some of the world’s most precious resources. For 23 years the World Land Trust has been saving threatened tropical forests and other vital habitats, thanks to the support of its loyal donors which includes individuals, schools and other groups, and the corporate community. Today WLT works globally with 20 non-governmental organisations and has been instrumental in the purchase and protection of over 500,000 acres of tropical forest and other threatened habitats. Together they ensure that over 4 million acres of land is managed under active protection worldwide. These are Real Acres in Real Places and most of the reserves that have been created can be visited.

WLT concentrates on tropical forests because they house the greatest species diversity and are among the most threatened of the world’s habitats. The Atlantic Rainforest, for instance, once stretched across Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay; it is now thought to be reduced to less than seven per cent of its original area. The WLT now fund various reserves throughout these countries. Land purchase and protection is done through a variety of ways and at the forefront are the ‘Buy an Acre’ projects in countries where threatened land can still be bought and saved for £100 or less an acre – currently running in Mexico, Colombia, Guatemala and Ecuador. In countries where land is more expensive, WLT has been extremely successful in funding smaller, strategic land purchases to create vital wildlife corridors. The corridors connect one protected wildlife reserve with another,

allowing species to roam safely creating safe havens for flagship species such as the Asian Elephant, Tiger, Orang-utan. WLT also funds ‘Keepers of the Wild’: rangers recruited from among the local community who protect the reserves against hunting and logging. Tree planting is carried out in Ecuador and Brazil to restore forests that have been lost in the past and the Carbon Balanced Programme has been developed to encourage individuals and small to medium sized businesses to offset their unavoidable carbon emissions. By offsetting through WLT, organisations are contributing to biodiversity conservation and tackling climate change at the same time, creating a compelling CSR story.

“The money that is given to the World Land Trust, in my estimation, has more effect on the wild world than almost anything I can think of. Their policy of buying and protecting land working with local people is the most direct and certain road to conservation. WLT deserves the support of all who care about the survival of the wild places of the world.” Sir David Attenborough, a Patron of the World Land Trust, speaking at a lecture entitled Biodiversity and Business: The Cost of Life on Earth in January 2012.

www.worldlandtrust.org Registered charity: 1001291

EST. 1988

OF SUFFOLK saddlery and country clothing

www.kingsofsuffolk.co.uk

Kings Saddlery and Countrywear was established in 1988 and has grown to be the largest supplier of equestrian and countrywear goods in east Suffolk.

Our one-stop shop is under new ownership and dedicated to bringing you the best value, quality goods whatever your equestrian discipline.

Whether you find yourself at home or away, hack out or compete at the highest level, Kings of Suffolk has an extensive range to suit, a bespoke ordering service plus genuine experience to share. From hairnets to horseshoe studs, we cater handsomely for horse and rider - and offer much more for your time in the country too. From classic tweed coats and smart boots for the shoot to waterproofs for walking your dog, our hand-picked country clothing includes distinguished brands and fantastic new season finds.

Local stockists for: Ariat, Musto Pikeur, Chrysalis Gersemi, Bucas Weatherbeeta Mark Todd Mountain Horse Horseware Puffa, Toggi Barbour Le Chameau Charles Owen Champion Jack Murphy Cavallo Rectiligne Beavers of Bolton and many more.

KINGS OF SUFFOLK GRANGE FARM, HASKETON, WOODBRIDGE, SUFFOLK IP13 6HN 01473 738237 sales@kingsofsuffolk.co.uk kingsofsuffolk.co.uk

Children’s Suffolk Southwold Maize Maze

Museum of East Anglian Life Set on a 75-acre site there is much to do – explore nearly 3km of woodland and riverside nature trails. Learn about fascinating East Anglian crafts and traditional Gypsy culture. Meet a Suffolk Punch horse and rare breeds of cattle and sheep. With a rolling programme of events, it is worth checking the website before you visit.

Great big maize maze in eight-acre field, plus picnic and play area with jumping pillow and pedal go-karts. Open late July to early September, Old Hall Farm, Halesworth Road, Reydon, Southwold, Suffolk, IP18 6SG www.southwoldmaizemaze.co.uk

Go Ape Go Ape is the UK's No.1 forest adventure with tree-top high wires. Find your inner Tarzan and swing through Thetford Forest. Go Ape! Thetford, High Lodge Forest Visitor Centre, Santon Downham, Brandon, Suffolk, IP27 0AF

Iliffe Way, Stowmarket, Suffolk, IP14 1DL eastanglianlife.org.uk

Aldeburgh Mystery Treasure Trail The ideal way for all ages to explore Aldeburgh and have fun on the way. The smartly designed and packaged Mystery Trail includes all the directions to take you around the best bits of Aldeburgh, observing and solving clues on the way. www.treasuretrails.co.uk

Kentwell Hall

Swim Nothing beats swimming outdoors so why not visit Beccles Lido, which is open until September 9. Check website for dates and times of opening. You can also get the Big Dog ferry from the lido if you fancy a leisurely trip down the River Waveney.

Go back in time at Kentwell Hall. Step back into Tudor England with famous re-creations of everyday Tudor life taking place on many weekends throughout the year. There are also re-creations of WWII everyday life and Dickensian life. Check the website for further information www.kentwell.co.uk

www.beccleslido.com www.bigdogferry.co.uk

Fly-fishing

For adrenalin, fun and excitement the most popular trip by far is this highspeed version – out to sea, off the Southwold coast. Open all year round it’s a blast.

Learn the gentle art of fly-fishing in the Suffolk countryside. Lessons include all equipment and the opportunity to keep two fish. From age 14-plus, £50 per person. The company is based in Chippenham Road, Kennett, Newmarket, CB8 7QJ

www.coastalvoyager.co.uk

www.wildtracksltd.co.uk

Coastal Voyager

the best of Suffolk

Suffolk is a real playground for children – not only for spending time at the beach. Here’s our pick of the best places to let off steam:

It’s said that Suffolk is one of the driest parts of the UK, but if you are unlucky with the weather, whether it is a light shower or a complete downpour, there is no need to let rain stop play. There are plenty of attractions to keep you dry and occupied.

DESIGN

TOUR

Southwold pier – try out the traditional amusement arcade and the collection of hand-built, unique machines on the pier. There is also a gift shop and places to have a snack and watch the rain as it hits the sea.

VISIT Create and paint your own ceramics at Scribbles Ceramics in Newmarket. Select a piece of pottery, paint it then have it glazed and fired – ready for collection within in a few days.

Take a guided tour of The National Stud, offering the unique opportunity to see behind the scenes of a working thoroughbred stud farm. What you are likely to see depends on the time of your visit: January-June, mares, foals, stallions. June -September, some mares, weaned foals, some yearlings/horses out of training. October-December, foals preparing for the sales, some permanent boarding mares. Family ticket £25. Booking is essential and can be done by contacting the tours line on 01638 666789. Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 0XE

St Edmundsbury Cathedral in the market town of Bury St Edmunds. Pilgrims and tourists have visited for thousands of years. Regular guided tours (11.30am daily except Sundays) run from Monday, April 9, 2012, until the end of September.

Scribbles Ceramics, Victoria House, 2 Park Lane, Newmarket. Tel: 01638 661555.

EXPERIENCE DRIVE

CurveMotion at Bury St Edmunds The indoor venue contains facilities for all age groups including roller disco, interactive play areas, mega slides. It has one of the largest play frames in East Anglia. Skating from £6.25. Lark Valley Business Park, Lamdin Road, Bury IP32 6LJ Tel: 0845 463 23 24

Long Shop Museum where you will find a large collection of objects, ranging from full-size steam engines (Richard Garrett & Sons engineering business made many hundreds of steam engines here) to touching mementoes of the lives of the working people of the town.

Anglia Indoor Karting a professionallydesigned racing circuit providing all the challenges of a full-size circuit. The karts are easy to drive, with no gears or clutch pedal – simply brake or accelerate! The fleet consists of kubz karts, cadet karts (12 laps for £14) and adult karts. Kubz karts are battery-operated and can be used by children from four years (£5 for five minutes). Unit 12, Farthing Road Industrial Estate, Ipswich IP1 5AP Tel:01473 240 087.

Main Street, Leiston, IP16 4ES Tel: 01728 832189.

the best of Suffolk

Fashion

Looking for something different? Independently run shops are an integral part of Britain's heritage. Known as ‘a nation of shopkeepers', our country has a wonderful array of small, independent shops for us to delight in. However, with the increasing strength of multiple retailers and national chains, a high street of independent shops now seems as rare as gold dust. Luckily for us, Suffolk still has plenty locally run businesses to tempt shoppers. High streets across the country often all feel the same – crammed with corporate giants, national chains and boring, bland shops selling similar things. Although these can offer good money-saving ideas, it is the uniqueness, creativity and character of independent shops that make a shopping experience so special and diverse. Not only that but spending in small independent shops also helps the local economy. Recent studies suggest that independently run businesses create

higher-paying jobs and reinvest in the local economy at a 60% higher rate than national chains. Suffolk, with its many small, pretty, market towns, is a shopper’s dream come true – and with thriving, independent shops lining the high streets shopping has never felt less guilty. Popular places such as Framlingham, Felixstowe, Woodbridge and Bury St Edmunds blend tradition with modernity through their bustling markets and successful and unique local shops. These markets are a long-standing tradition (the one at Bury St Edmunds dates back to before the days of William the Conqueror). The Great British Vintage Markets held at Snape, Woodbridge and Ipswich (www.debenevents.com) are also worth a visit.

Coes in Ipswich is a third-generation family business with various branches in Suffolk. Coes was established in 1928 by William David Coe and has always prided itself on offering a wide range of quality clothing. Southwold has a strong reputation for its eclectic mix of independent shops and has become increasingly popular among celebrities. The chic boutiques are perfect for those wanting exclusive and elegant pieces that no one else will be wearing. Another shop in Suffolk worth noting is the Quilters Haven in Wickham Market – a shop and teaching area that is heaven for all those interested in textile crafts. These pretty towns and villages pride themselves on the quality of their independent shops and take great pleasure in providing excellent service for their visitors. Why not treat yourself?

the best of Suffolk

stunning designer shoes, Handbags and accessories Luciano Padovan | Gaia d’este | stuart Weitzman | Pura LoPez | massimo truLLi | LoribLu 33 abbeygate street, bury st edmunds, suffolk iP33 1LW 01284 760011 | www.nicolasexton.co.uk monday to Friday: 9.00am – 5.00pm saturday: 9.30am – 5.30pm sunday: 11.00am – 3.00pm

Diamond engagement and wedding ring specialists Wedfit mounts feature contempory designs combined with the unique ability to fit flush against a standard wedding ring with no gap in between. Available in all popular diamond shapes and sizes in Platinum or Gold. Prices from £750.00.

5 Church Street Woodbridge Suﬀolk IP12 1DH Tel: 01394 389666

www.aspensjewellers.co.uk

the best of Suffolk

el i zab e t h g ash

itting on Lavenham’s picturesque market place in a pretty timber framed building, is knitwear designer Elizabeth Gash’s eponymous first shop. Her second opened only two years ago in Bury St Edmunds and is down St. John’s St, one of the longest runs of independent retailers in Britain. Step inside either shop and you enter an Aladdin’s cave of colour, texture and pattern. Both shops have traditional oak beam interiors with shelves stacked with knitwear and clothes in jewel-like colours, the urge to forage is irresistible. Most of Elizabeth’s knitwear is inspired by the beautiful designs of eastern nomadic textiles and rugs. Her distinctive graphic patterns and deep rich colours owe much to traditional kilim designs. The range, which can be made to measure, includes jackets, waistcoats, hats, bags, scarves and cushions, and each piece, no matter how small, is imbued with Elizabeth’s trademark flair for colour and pattern. The success of the shops in Lavenham and Bury St Edmunds is the culmination of more than20 years’ hard work. Elizabeth started her knitting career with a stall in Covent Garden, and as her following grew, she took on more knitters and sold her knitwear to other select shops and a knitwear catalogue ‘Penny Plain’. It was ten years ago, after encouragement from a friend, that the first shop was opened in idyllic Lavenham, a short drive from her home in Rattlesden. All of Elizabeth’s work is undertaken here in Suffolk: Elizabeth designs and makes the swatches on her knitting machine, and then the garments are hand framed locally in beautiful Scottish silk and lamb’s wool yarn This veritable treasure trove of gorgeous knitwear has become a showcase for leading British textile designers. Having sold from a stall for so many years, Elizabeth’s aim in opening a shop was to create a thriving outlet for unusual, beautiful garments made by talented designers living in the UK. Stocking a carefully-chosen selection by Lorry Marshall, Bill Baber, Sophie’s Wild Woollens, Mary Davis and the Quernstone. It has become an absolute must visit for wool lovers. As well as a fantastic array of knitted designs, Elizabeth has included clothes by Flax, SeaSalt, Noa Noa, Cut Loose, Backstage, Natural Wave and Adini, all hand-picked to complement her own range perfectly. And even accessories are catered for: she has got a great range of bags, scarves and gloves, and a beautiful display of semi-precious and silver jewellery, including pieces by jewellery designers Annie Mundy, Travels Afar and Sara Withers, Bags by Monica Boxley and Tamara Fogle and Scarves by Margo Selby.

eLIZABetH gAsH knItWeAR elizabeth gash Lorry Marshall the Quernstone ellamoda sophieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wild Wollens Mary Davis knitwear noa noa Flax Backstage Cut Loose Adini natural Wave sea salt Margo selby Capri 86 st Johns street, Bury st edmunds 01284 766045 36 Market Place, Lavenham tel: 01787 248561 Open 10.00am-5.00pm daily (Bury st edmunds, closed sundays) www.elizabethgash.com www.discoverlavenham.co.uk

The place to find hair perfection The Michael Richards Team is led by Michael Trower, a former Eastern Stylist of the Year finalist in the British Hairdresser of the Year Awards. The training Michael received at Vidal Sassoon in London, more than 40 years ago, helped him swiftly establish a loyal following among the ‘smart set’ in Suffolk. By consistently offering a friendly and professional experience, Michael has ensured that many of those clients are still visiting the salon today. Michael’s award-winning, expertly trained team create the kind of cuts and colours that turn heads and leave clients looking and feeling fabulous. The salon strives continuously to deliver the latest in contemporary hairstyling. The salon is renowned for its friendly working environment – the numerous awards speak for themselves. In an independent survey of 1,000 top UK salons, the Michael Richards Team were placed in the Top 20. A freshly ground cup of coffee and time set aside for a full consultation ensure that each client visit gets off to the best possible start. The salon is conveniently located on the eastern outskirts of Ipswich and benefits from a large free car park and easy access to all major trunk roads.

Award-winning salon

2012 ‘The English Hair and Beauty Awards’ Eastern finalist Voted 2012 ‘Best Loved’ Hair Salon in Ipswich (Source ‘Best of Ipswich’) Voted one of the Top 20 salons in the UK (Maxim Independent Research) British Hairdresser of the Year Award. Eastern Stylist of the Year Finalist

For more details about the salon and for a great half-price introductory offer please visit

www.michaelrichards.biz

U F F O R D PA R K H E A LT H & S PA W H E R E I T I S A L L A B O U T YO U Lu xu r y Th e rm al S u it e wit h Hy dro Pool, M in e ra l G rot to, Foot S p as , A roma S te a m Room , S of t Sa u na , Fe a tu re Sh owe r s, Re lax at ion Z on e & Ice Fou n ta in . D a y S p a E x p e r i e nc e s f r o m £ 2 0 p p . R e s i d e n t i a l S p a B r ea k s f r o m £ 8 5 p p . O p en t o n o n m e m b e r s , 7 d a y s a w e e k .

For more information please call 0844 8479409 or visit

www.uffordpark.co.uk/spa Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1QW.

UFFORD PARK HEALTH & SPA

Ufford Park Hotel, Golf & Spa Looking for somewhere to relax, revitalise or restore? Then look no further than the Ufford Park Spa near Woodbridge in Suffolk. Set in 120 acres of parkland this 87 bedroom hotel with golf course and luxury spa is everything you would expect and the reason why it is the ‘gateway to Suffolk’s heritage coast’ and within easy access of Norfolk just off the A12. Come for the day with friends or your partner or make a weekend of it. With spa experiences starting from as little as £20 per person for our twilight experiences – the ideal escape after a busy day with the children or at the office! And 1 night Spa Breaks from only £85pp – how soon can you get here. The purpose built thermal suite offers a series of heating and cooling experiences based on the ancient ritual of bathing. The suite includes a hydropool, aroma steam room, soft sauna,

the best of Suffolk

mineral grotto, feature showers, foot spas and relaxation area with complimentary cool filtered water and selection of herbal teas. Your experience does also include access to the 15M deck level swimming pool and gymnasium – for those looking for a little work out perhaps before they enter the spa. The spa is also the perfect solution for a special birthday party, your hen celebrations, a romantic anniversary or a corporate informal meeting – it can also be hired for exclusive use* if you want something really special (*Min. numbers apply).

Ufford Park Spa is open 7 days a week and open to non members. Call 0844 847 9409 to book or visit www.uffordpark.co.uk/spa

the best of Suffolk

Food

slow Cooked Duck egg and truffle salad the British Larder, see page 97

Suffolk food producers

Gorgeous Suffolk food there is so much of it Suffolk is well-known for locally produced, high-quality food and drink, such as pork, apples and ciders From plough to plate, from field to fork – that’s the proud claim Suffolk can easily make. The county is packed with gourmet restaurants and an amazing number of first-class producers, farm shops, delicatessens and food emporiums. From Aldeburgh’s famous fish and chips to Suffolk farmhouse cheese, there are countless ways to tuck in and enjoy what the county has to offer. Don’t forget to seek out the microbreweries, the apple juices and ciders and there’s even a rather quaffable Suffolk wine these days. (see page 90 for our feature on independent brewing). Take time to try the jams – of which there are many. Then there are Jimmy’s Farm sausages, breads, cheeses and so much more. The only problem you’ll face is deciding how much to enjoy.

Farmers’ markets, local shops and food festivals also give visitors the chance to sample locally produced food – shops such as Black Olive in Southwold, Leo’s in Framlingham and Pump Street Bakery in Orford are just some of those stocking a diverse range of local produce. Eye country market is well worth a look and other farmers’ markets include those held at Snape Maltings and at Jimmy’s Farm. The Suffolk food hall is another one for the list, providing an impressive showcase for quality local food. Finally, if you are in the area during September, Aldeburgh’s Food and Drink Festival is a must when more than 90 exhibitors showcase organic vegetables, fresh and smoked fish, rare-breed meat and game, cheeses, frozen yoghurt, jams, beer, wine and lager.

Virtually all exhibitors’ businesses are based in east Suffolk, reflecting the high quality and tremendous variety of food and drink in the region. Alternatively, if you want some hands-on experience, why not go on a food safari? Described as gourmet food experiences, this business offers a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes at some of Suffolk’s best food and drink producers (not usually open to the public) for information about their events. Please visit foodsafari.co.uk As a county, Suffolk has a diverse and wonderful landscape and this is reflected in the wide range of local food produced in this region. From home-grown vegetables bought from the side of the road to award-winning pork, sampling Suffolk’s food and drink at its source really is a special experience.

• PIC NIC S

Leo’s Deli Fine foods & Wine Open Monday to Friday 8.30am-5.30pm Saturday 8.00am-5.30pm

01728 724059 www.leosdeli.co.uk 17 Market Hill Framlingham Suffolk IP13 9AN

GIFT HAMPERS • OILS

CHEESE

• C H A R C U T E R I E • L E O N I D A S C H O C O L A T E S • O L I V E S • A N T I PA S T I •

• G R E AT W I N E S F RO M A RO U N D T H E WO R L D • PAT E S • B R E A D • 84

the best of Suffolk

THE WOODBRIDGE FINE FOOD COMPANY suffolk’s most stylish purveyors of fine food from fish to shellfish, pies to tarts, Champagne to Chablis, there are endless gastronomic delights in this foodie Aladdin’s cave.

“One of the top delis in the Country” Open Monday to saturday, 9am – 5.30pm

www.woodbridgefinefoodcompany.co.uk

2A neW stReet WOODRIDge, suFFOLk IP12 1Dt 01394 610000

THE WATERFRONT CAFE the Waterfront Cafe is one of “east Anglia’s Most Hidden secrets” serving the finest food and wine in a superb tranquil setting overlooking the River Deben. Occupying the ground floor of the 300 year old granary adjacent to Woodbridge's most famous landmark the tide Mill.

“A must for any serious foodie” Open 7 Days a Week, 10am (ish) – 5pm (ish) For reservations call: 01394 610333

www.thewaterfrontcafe.co.uk

tHe gRAnARy, tIDe MILL WOODRIDge, suFFOLk IP12 1By 01394 610333

Suffolk food producers

Here are a few of the best suppliers, delis, farm shops and foodie delights available: Alder Tree

Emmett’s

Stokes

A family-owned, farm-based business that makes award-winning fruit cream Ices. There is a wide range of flavours, from gooseberry and elderflower to damson and even a Christmas cream ice with hefty cinnamon flavours and a decent hit of brandy. Available in delis, cafes, gastro pubs, restaurants and farm shops. www.alder-tree.co.uk

The best independently-owned shop for 2012 GourmetBritain.com Based in Peasenhall and famous across the UK and beyond for its Suffolk hams and bacon. Preserved in a traditional way, the hams are cured, gently smoked or pickled in the old outbuildings and original smokehouse behind the shop. www.emmettsham.co.uk

Stokes Sauces is the main brand of dressings, sauces, condiments and mustards produced by Rick Sheepshanks under the umbrella name of Essfoods. Other brands are Suffolk Mud and Staverton Ewe whilst The Suffolk Saucery makes products for other leading brand names such as Jamie Oliver and Gressingham Foods. The key principles of Stokes Sauces are: production in small batches; use of the best and finest ingredients and making and taking time to do it right. Rick's vision was to produce the best tasting preserved sauce you can buy in a jar. stokessauces.co.uk

Artisan Smokehouse A small, family-run smokehouse who pride themselves on using quality raw ingredients producing an exciting range of smoked foods. Available online and in local delis and farm shops. www.artisansmokehouse.co.uk

Blythburgh Free Range Pork Blythburgh Free Range Pork has made a name for itself as the premium pork brand in the UK market. The secret to its quality is that the pigs are truly free range with no antibiotics or growth promoters resulting in a happier, slower growing pig and ultimately a better flavour. Father and son, Jimmy and Alistair Butler have been a widely praised for their commitment to sustainable farming and are winners of the Farmer's Weekly 'Pig Farmer of the Year Award'. freerangepork.co.uk

James White Juices White's fruit farm, just outside Ipswich, is well-established with more than 20 years’ experience when it comes to producing quality fruit juices – from classic English apples to lively organic vegetable juices and Big Tom, the best accompaniment to a bloody mary.

Maximus Maximus Sustainable Fishingmonger based on the same plot as Friday Street Farm Shop specialises in providing fresh fish sourced locally just off the coast of Lowestoft using only sustainable fishing methods, such as longline techniques and fish traps. Tel: 01502 519732 www.sustainable-fishing.co.uk

Pump Street Bakery A small, family-owned bakery and café in the village of Orford. Well worth a visit. It produces outstanding bread and pastries as well as light lunches featuring seasonal local produce. pumpstreetbakery.com

Sutton Hoo Chickens The Nash family rear-free range and organic chickens on grassland next to the ancient Sutton Hoo burial site with beautiful views across to the river Deben and Woodbridge. It's a combination of factors that help their Suffolk White chickens taste so good, firstly they have time to grow; intensively reared birds are often killed at 5 weeks, Sutton Hoo chickens average at 12 weeks; secondly the chickens always have access to fresh grazing grass; and thirdly they've got 40 acres of space to run around. All this contributes to a happier, leaner and more naturally grown bird with great texture and tone, and a delicious flavour. suttonhoochicken.co.uk

If you are looking for great tasting food and drink search for your nearest farm shop, deli or food hall online at www.loveyourdeli.co.uk

the best of Suffolk

The Dolphin Inn & Village Store at the heart of Thorpeness A family run business situated in the unique seaside village of Thorpeness holds a special place in the heart of the local community. Resurrected after a devastating fire in 1995 and rebuilt in 1998 The Dolphin Inn together with the Village Store have become an indispensable part of village life. Formally known as the Crown Inn, the original building used to be attached to six cottages known as West Terrace. The Inn was renamed when the cottages were demolished and the building extended with bedrooms to become the Dolphin Inn. Parts of the village, then known as Aldringham-cum-Thorpe, date back to Tudor times, but in 1910 the village was renamed Thorpeness when landowner, Stuart Ogilvie, began realising his plan to create a unique seaside holiday village on the site. David James and his daughter Kerry have been running this handy little hideaway for five years and now boast an eventful calendar for the locals and tourists. Along with the Head Chef Chris Theobold they have created one of the top dining restaurants destinations in the area. This is truly a great British pub where you can expect really good food and great beer served in a warm friendly environment.

the Dolphin Inn & Village store

FROM THE PUMP As a free house The Dolphin Inn dispenses award winning real ales, all sourced locally from independent producers and micro-breweries including Adnams, Brandon Brewery, Crouch Vale and Woodfordes. Proud to carry Cask Marque accreditation. An excellent wine list has been developed with wines sourced from some of the best cellars around the world, this features alongside a large selection of bourbons, single malts and port.

OUT OF THE SMOKE The Dolphin Inn has a fantastic restaurant with an enthusiastic chef, the style of food reflects both traditional and modern influences with the focus being on using locally sourced or home grown produce. Featuring its own smoked fish including mackerel, prawns, hot smoked salmon as well as smoked free range chicken and cheese.

| 01728 454994 | www.thorpenessdolphin.com the best of Suffolk

Suffolk food producers

Farm shops and farmers’ markets The farm shops and farmers’ markets in Suffolk are some of the best in the UK, thanks to their long agricultural history. Food production remains a critical part of the local economy today and at Suffolk’s various markets you will often meet the farmers or producers themselves. This locally-based, eco-friendly way to shop enables you to find out where your produce comes from at source. The markets are well worth a visit as not only do they offer fresh, healthy produce, but the food is much tastier than the longhauled supermarket alternative. What’s more, the prices are usually competitive.

the best of Suffolk

Friday Street Farm Friday Street Farm is a thriving arable farm situated just inland from Aldeburgh. Friday Street Farm prides itself on supplying foods of the highest quality to their customers. A genuine farm shop that stocks their own home-grown potatoes, asparagus, strawberries and raspberries. The jewel in their crown is The Cafe Restaurant, where nearly all of the food is made on site and the few dishes that aren’t are sourced locally. Friday Street, Farnham Saxmundham IP17 1JX 01728 602783 farmshopsuffolk.co.uk

Hall Farm sHOP

DeLICAtessen

CAFé

Hall Farm

Hollow Trees

Newbourne Farm Shop

Hall Farm Shop – Awarded ‘Best Farm Shop In Suffolk 2011’- has a reputation for supplying high-quality local produce. Their own lamb and beef can be found in the well-stocked butchery counter and the delicatessen offers a variety of fine cheeses and cooked meats.

Hollow Trees is an outstanding farm shop situated on the A1141 in the heart of Suffolk between Lavenham and Hadleigh. Open seven days a week and a great day out for all the family.

Newbourne Farm Shop is a family run farm shop selling home-grown fruit and vegetables and locally sourced Suffolk food.

Try the handmade pasties, filled rolls and mouth-watering cakes, all created by their own chefs. They also have a range of giftware and will make up hampers to your own requirements. Hall Farm, Stratford St Mary Colchester CO7 6LS 01206 322572 hallfarmshop.co.uk

It is much more than just an inviting farm shop full of home-grown produce and local fare. Here you can enjoy Woodlands Coffee Shop and a Farm Trail that takes you all around the fields with many animals to feed and activities to do. Hollow Trees Farm Shop Semer, Ipswich IP7 6HX 01449 741247 hollowtrees.co.uk

They offer the finest produce including groceries, meats, vegetables, bread, flour, eggs, dairy, fruit juices, sausages and bacon. Selling only the highest quality home grown, local, organic and fair trade food. They run events throughout the year such as free tastings, where you can meet some of their local suppliers and try before you buy! Newbourne Farm Shop 26 Mill Road, Newbourne Woodbridge IP12 4NP 01473 736407 newbournefarmshop.co.uk

Get a taste of the real Suffolk and visit one of the county’s many farmers’ markets during your visit. Aldeburgh – Church Hall 3rd Saturday, 9am - 12.30pm

Halesworth – Town Centre 2nd Saturday, 9am - 1pm

Snape Maltings 1st Saturday, 9.30am-1pm

Assington Assington Barn, The Street 2nd Sunday, 10am - 2pm

Jimmy's Farm Pannington Hall Farm, Wherstead 1st Saturday, 9am - 1pm

Southwold Adnams Cellar and Kitchen Store Every Friday, 9am - 12:30pm

Beccles – Beccles Heliport 1st & 3rd Saturday, 9am - 1pm

Lavenham – Village Hall 4th Sunday, 10am -1.30pm

Stanton – Wyken Farm Every Saturday, 9am - 1pm

Easton – Easton Farm Park 4th Saturday, 9am-1pm

Long Melford – Village Hall 3rd Saturday, 10am-1pm

Sudbury – St Peter's Church Last Friday, 9.30am-1pm

Felixstowe – Manning’s Amusements 2nd Saturday, 10am -2pm

Risby – Village Hall 1st Saturday, 9am - 1pm

Woodbridge – Community Centre 2nd & 4th Saturday, 9am-1pm

the best of Suffolk

Suffolk independent brewing

Land of malt and barley

Beer lovers, look no further: Suffolk is bursting with established and upstart microbreweries, and they are producing some of the finest – and most inventive – pints around. Laura Potts leads the tour. Fancy trying a hedgerow porter, a Belgian-inspired witbier or even just a traditional but carefully crafted bitter? If you love beer, you’re in the right place. It seems as long as there’s been Suffolk, there’s been beer – a robust heritage built on the area’s rich agricultural assets and obliging climate. But whilst Suffolk’s beloved Greene King and Adnam’s breweries gain increasing market strength outside East Anglia, a quiet revolution is brewing along the county’s winding rural lanes and in its timeless village pubs. “Between Norfolk and Suffolk, there are 50 breweries, and it’s quite safe to say that’s a very high concentration,” said Jon Howard, spokesman for the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA). “There are now more small breweries [nationally] than at any time since WWII.” Grain Brewery, in the bucolic Waveney River valley straddling Norfolk and Suffolk, is one of those success stories. What started almost as a hobby shared by a couple of guys who loved a good pint, Grain is now a multiple awardwinning brewery whose eclectic range of beers can be found in London and across

East Anglia’s pubs, restaurants, hotels and farm shops. Grain’s own pub, The Plough in Norwich, nestles cosily in a 500-year-old merchant’s house with a sprawling, continental-style beer garden – but its beer takes centre stage. Enticing seasonal and one-off varieties aside, Grain’s mainstay of 9 real ales cover all bases, from subtly fruity wheat beers and pale ales to distinctive bitters. “We brew endlessly, and we really go down the rabbit hole,” trying assorted blends to develop flavours like the zingy, auburn-hued Redwood bitter, said Grain co-founder Phil Halls. “You can be experimental and try things out to create different combinations, and that’s what I like about brewing.” So evangelical about brewing are Halls and partner Geoff Wright that that they’ve hired a “beer missionary” to spread the gospel and, like many local microbrewers, they are pleased to give tours of the brewery, in the converted dairy where they produce 18,000 pints a week. Likewise, the Mill Green Brewery in the tiny mid-Suffolk village of Edwardstone draws inspiration from its rural surroundings – even incorporating

foraging the hedgerows for creations such as elderflower ale and a porter flavoured with blackberries, plums and sloes. Calling itself “probably the greenest brewery in the world,” Mill Green is housed in a building made of local and recycled materials, uses solar heat and a wood burner in the brewing process, and grows some of its own barley and hops in a nearby field. With awards for both its beers and its green credentials, Mill Green is one to look out for. And for those who want to enjoy more than one pint or visit its four seasonal beer festivals, Mill Green’s home pub, the White Horse in Edwardstone, offers delightful selfcatering and camping pitches. Truly committed beer enthusiasts could do worse than plotting a brewery tour of the county, incorporating Brewshed (as the name suggests, literally a shed – although a rather smart one) in Bury St. Edmunds; St. Peter’s, behind a moated 13th Century hall; Bildeston’s King’s Head; or Nethergate, in Pentlow near Sudbury. Also look out for Aspall Cyders and apple juice, a Suffolk institution widely available.

Since 1795, the name Mauldons has been associated with well-respected, award-winning traditional beers. From our brewery in Sudbury, we produce traditional bitters, stouts, and porters, the most famous being the award-winning Black Adder stout. Our standard range is complimented throughout the year with a range of seasonal ales. You can find our beers in real ale pubs throughout the UK including our own pub, The Brewery Tap in Sudbury that has won CAMRA West Suffolk Pub of the Year Winners 2012.

the best of Suffolk

Pub Guide

the best of Suffolk

Pub Guide

Whether you are looking for refreshments on a hot sunny day, or a cosy corner on a winter’s evening, our guide can point you in the right direction…

Ye Olde Bell and Steelyard Woodbridge

The antidote to your busy day. Located in the historic town of Woodbridge Ye Olde Bell & Steelyard was built in 1540 and is one of the last two steelyards left in England, it is also grade 1 listed so it is steeped in history. You can be sure of a warm welcome. Our food is home made from fresh local produce and our menu changes often. We have a large tranquil beer garden, dogs and children are welcome and we host live music every weekend. We are a cask marque accredited with three guest ales each week.

01394 382933 www.yeoldebellandsteelyard.co.uk 103 New St (off Market Hill), Woodbridge IP12 1DZ

The Ship Inn Levington

The Kings Head Hadleigh

The Ship Inn at Levington, overlooking the beautiful banks of the River Orwell, is thriving under the ownership of Susan and Adrian Searing. This popular pub continues to produce some of the finest food in the Ipswich area. Using local produce wherever possible, this kitchen offers very varied choices, innovative recipes and many favourite classics, combining to give guests an excellent dining experience. It is hard to beat the sensation of sitting on the terrace in the early evening sun sharing a chilled bottle of wine – certainly one of life’s little pleasures, and right here on your doorstep… So whether you are ambling the riverside paths, or bringing an important client to lunch, The Ship at Levington is a real treasure, for a memorable meal with professional service.

Situated on the High Street of this historic market town we pride ourselves on serving excellent food at sensible prices. Our head chef and his team have created a menu that provides a good choice of dishes ranging from classic favourites to the more creative and indulgent. The traditional interior of the pub offers two bars with a separate dining room and an open fire within a large inglenook fire-place as well as a wood-burning stove. At the rear of the pub is a beer terrace where you can relax with snacks and drinks during warm summer days. We've lots of fantastic events planned throughout 2012-13 so please check our website for details.

01473 659573

01473 828855

www.theshipinnlevington.co.uk

www.kingsheadhadleigh.co.uk

Church Lane, Levington, Ipswich IP10 0LQ

The Kings Head, 90 High Street, Hadleigh, Suffolk IP7 5EF

the best of Suffolk

Pub Guide The Dove Street Inn Ipswich

The One Bull Bury St Edmunds

The Dove Street Brewery opened for production in May 2011, and is located over the road from the Dove Street Inn. Packed into a former single garage, the two barrel plant is compact yet offers versatility to brew back to back brews and different beer types. The current beer range includes a Mild at 3.2% a.b.v, a house bitter at 3.7%, a golden ale, a strong bitter and old fashioned strong dark ale. Unlike many small breweries, investment has been high with proper water treatment facilities with quality local malts sourced and used. They use their own stainless steel casks and computerization looks after recipes, duty payments and orders. To complement the brewery there is a ‘Home Brew’ shop on site selling home brew wine and beer supplies and bed and breakfast rooms for those who have tried all the beers in the pub! The beers are available at The Dove Street Inn and occasional local festivals.

Not everyone wants the same thing from a pub. You might want a pint of local real ale at the bar… A bottle of wine and a grazing board on the sofas… A meal in the dining room… A really good coffee and a read of the paper… If real ale is your thing, we offer our own Brewshed Best Bitter, Pale Ale and American Blonde plus a few seasonal specials. We’re passionate about wine and have created a list that offers a selection of well made wines offering good value for money. Every single one of our wines are available by the glass. On the food side, the emphasis is on good quality, seasonal produce, sourced locally wherever possible. We even smoke our own smoked salmon on the premises. We love Sunday lunch and offer a great roast – bring the family or meet up with friends and catch up on your week. We’re open from noon until late. So if you’re in need of a fair-trade organic coffee at any time, you know where to come.

01473 211270

01284 848220

www.dovestreetinn.co.uk

www.theonebull.co.uk

76 St. Helens St, Ipswich IP4 2LA

Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 1UZ

The Affleck Arms Dalham, Newmarket

The Tuddenham Fountain Tuddenham

Situated six miles from Newmarket and the famous racecourse, in the thatched village of Dalham, The Affleck Arms dates back to the 16th century. This friendly pub offers a cosy restaurant and a sleepy bar with original beams and a prominent inglenook fireplace. It carries cask marque accreditation, with four cask ales always available. A beer-fest is held every June and the pub is listed in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide. The home-cooked food is exceptional and very well-priced catering for families, racegoers and walkers. There is a large car park at the rear, front riverside garden overlooking this picturesque Suffolk village, en suite accommodation available.

The Fountain is an informal bistro style restaurant set in an ‘oldieworldy’ 16th century country pub, located in the lovely village of Tuddenham St Martin, in the heart of the country but only three miles north of Ipswich. The pub serves excellent food and wines in a warm and friendly atmosphere with individually priced and fixed price two or three course menus. There is also a blackboard featuring fish and other specials of the day. Both menus are available seven days and six nights a week For those sunny summer days The Fountain has a lovely covered and heated patio area for 60 people and a wonderful lawned garden, seating 80 people. Private Dining is available in the ‘Giles Room’, which can accommodate up to 36 people; ideal for meetings, private lunches and celebratory meals with friends. We are open Monday to Friday 12-2pm, 6-9pm; Saturday 12-2pm, 6-9.30pm; Sunday 12 to 3pm, closed evening.

01638 500306

01473 785377

Email: the.affleck@live.co.uk

www.tuddenhamfountain.co.uk

The Affleck Arms, Brookside, Dalham, Newmarket CB8 8TG

The Street,Tuddenham, Ipswich IP6 9BT

the best of Suffolk

Qualité... Qualité... Qualité It’s Regis Crepy’s mantra and one that has stood him in good stead for almost 30 years as one of East Anglia’s leading chefs and restaurateurs.

Regis attended The University of Lausanne, the world’s most prestigious catering and hospitality college and gained a Masters. With his meticulous attention to detail, professionalism and an intuitive sense of understanding what his clientele wants, he is dedicated to ensuring that his customers always receive the perfect experience. Regis and his wife Martine who he met at Lausanne, came to East Anglia in 1983 to progress his career and learn English. He was offered the opportunity to buy The Great House, a small 20 cover restaurant in Lavenham in 1985 and with just him in the kitchen, Martine as front of house and two staff he set about establishing the thriving business he has today which is still based on the same premise of offering his customers what they want. “I am completely ignorant of

fashion in catering,” he states, “it is only quality that never goes out of fashion.” Regis now owns three successful restaurants in Suffolk. As well as The Great House, he owns Maison Bleue in Bury St Edmunds which he bought in 1998 and Mariners on Ipswich Waterfront, purchased in 1995. Together with his senior staff who have a share in the ownership of the business, The Great House is a renowned small luxury hotel with five beautifully designed bedrooms; Maison Bleue is highly acclaimed particularly for those who love fish dishes whilst Mariners has its own unique character located onboard a 110 year old Dutch gunboat. With very different characteristics and identities, the cuisine at all three destinations is French and delicious; assured cooking by the head chefs is

www.greathouse.co.uk 01787 247431

www.maisonbleue.co.uk 01284 760623

classic French technique with contemporary presentation that allows quality to shine through. Regis is hands on, working closely with his chefs, diligently sourcing ingredients and planning and tasting the menus. Surprisingly for a chef and restaurateur, Regis believes that a restaurant it is not all about food, other crucial ingredients, such as the décor, wine, service, the smile and good management must be given equal importance and this commitment to excellence is shared by all his staff. Regis has a tremendous team, mostly French and some have been with him for over 20 years and it is this stability and cohesion that creates quite a unique atmosphere that in turn generates tremendous loyalty from customers – many who are brought as children to eat with their parents in turn bring their own children years later. Over the years, Regis’ establishments have received a number of prestigious awards: three Michelin red forks; Good Food Guide East England Restaurant of the Year 2013, 2010, 2009; Hardens A** Top UK Restaurant Guides and Hardens Guides 2000 – 2011; Britain & Ireland 2009 Good Hotel Guide a Cesar award for Restaurant with Rooms of the Year, to name a few. There are few restaurants that have been owned and run by the same people for more than 28 years and Regis who is still as passionate as he was 30 years ago remains firm to his belief that qualité is paramount.

www.marinersipswich.co.uk 01473 289748

the best of eating out Milsom Hotels and Restaurants the finest places to eat, drink and stay… The Milson Group of hotels and restaurants is rather special. It all started with Le Talbooth, the flag ship of the group. With its idyllic garden setting beside the river Stour. The restaurant is perfect for an intimate dinner for two or an elaborate celebration in the marquee on the upper terrace. Also in Dedham is milsoms, a contemporary bar/brasserie with an AA rosette, where you can eat outside under the huge architecturalsail. There’s a no booking at milsoms so turn up when you please – the full menu is available from noon until 9.30pm(10pm on Saturdays) so there's no rush. A short drive away is The Pier at Harwich, a unique property in an equally unique location. The Pier is right beside the quay in Harwich old town and has two superb restaurants. The Harbourside with two AA rosettes on the first floor with fineviews over the Stour and Orwell estuaries. It specialises in locally caught seafood and also serves the best steaks in town!

On the ground floor the Ha’penny Brasserie has a relaxed, contemporary feel, serving delicious fish and chips and like milsoms in Dedham is open all day with no booking – perfect if you’re arriving by sea! Last but by no means least, milsoms Kesgrave Hall, a magnificent Georgian mansion in 38 acres of lawn and woodlands. The kitchen champions local Suffolk produce and the restaurant is open all day from noon again no booking is required. To sum up – five fabulous restaurants all with individual style and character with real synergy of food, atmosphere, service andtrue hospitality - where you can also stay! Visit our website www.milsomhotels.com and see for yourselves.

the finest places to eat, drink, stay...

Gun Hill, Dedham

Hall Road, Kesgrave

01206 323150

01473 333741

Stratford Rd, Dedham

The Quay, Harwich

Stratford Rd, Dedham

01206 322795

01255 241212

01206 322367

find us on Facebook | www.milsomhotels.com

the best of Suffolk

the best of eating out The Ickworth Hotel Bury St Edmunds

Tuddenham Mill Tuddenham, Newmarket

The Ickworth Hotel, part of the Luxury Family Hotel Group, is nestled in 1,800 acres of National Trust Parkland.

Tuddenham Mill is an intimate boutique hotel set in 12 acres of rural Suffolk countryside near Newmarket and Cambridge.

Fredericks, our award-winning restaurant, is situated in the original Hervey Family dining rooms and is the perfect setting in which to enjoy superb food and wines. Candlelit dinner is a sophisticated adult-only affair – the menu is available from 7.00pm till 9.30pm and offers modern European cuisine, with a leaning towards the traditional, while the room itself affords splendid views over the immaculately tended lawns, hedges and vistas of the Italian gardens.

In the restaurant, Head Chef Paul Foster has received many accolades including: ‘Young Chef of the Year 2011’ by The Observer Monthly, ‘Up and Coming Chef of the Year 2012’ by The Good Food Guide and 3 AA Rosettes putting Tuddenham Mill in the top 10% of all restaurants reviewed by the AA .

A less formal brassiere-style experience awaits you in the Grand Conservatory, offering light lunches and delicious afternoon teas by day and a relaxed family restaurant by night. With a wide selection of dishes to choose from and a strong emphasis on local produce, what better place to spend your day than relaxing like Lords and Ladies in the splendor of Ickworth.

The Ickworth Hotel Horringer, Bury St Edmunds tel: 01284 735350 email: info@ickworthhotel.co.uk www.ickworthhotel.co.uk

the best of Suffolk

Paul and his team have created exciting and contemporary menus which reflect the chic, yet rustic surroundings. With a focus on fresh and seasonal ingredients including a fondness for foraged ingredients, some from Tuddenham Mill’s own meadow, each dish is designed to capture a delicious and exciting range of flavours and textures.

Lunch at Tuddenham Mill 2 course £20 • 3 course £25 5 course lunch taster £35 Tuddenham Mill High Street Tuddenham Nr. Newmarket Suffolk IP28 6SQ 01638 713552 info@tuddenhammill.co.uk www.tuddenhammill.co.uk

the best of eating out The British Larder Suffolk Bromeswell, Woodbridge

The Bildeston Crown Bildeston

Described by Michelin as ‘…a beacon for Suffolk produce, courtesy of its owners who have a passion for all things local…’ the award-winning British Larder offers a range of reasonably priced, tempting dishes.

The Bildeston Crown, set in a Suffolk village just six miles from Lavenham, has 12 luxury en-suite double/twin bedrooms. In Spring 2012 the Suffolk inn introduced ‘Ingrams’ – its refurbished 30-seater dining room which showcases the creativity and talents of Head Chef Chris Lee and the reason behind why the Suffolk inn has held AA 3 rosettes since 2007.

The menu is a la carte with the addition of a set lunch menu available Monday to Friday. It is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, has a ‘bring your own wine’ evening every Monday (£5 corkage charge), is child friendly and has disability access. According to Jay Rayner, ‘the British Larder is a treat in store for the greedy eater.’

Ingrams features the seasonally changing ‘Select’ menu and the increasingly popular 8 course Crown Tasting menu. The new dining room complements the more relaxed dining available in the restaurant/bar. Chris uses locally sourced produce whenever possible including Red Poll beef (an indigenous Suffolk breed) and lamb from the owners’ neighbouring farm. Awards include ‘Taste of England’ Gold in the national 2010 tourism awards and it is ranked 107 in The Sunday Times ‘The Food List’ 2011 (compiled with Harden’s), Britain’s Top 200 Restaurants and third in the country’s Top Gastropubs.

I N T R O D U C I N G

Featuring Chris Lee’s ‘Select’ and 8 course Tasting menus

The British Larder Suffolk Orford Road, Bromeswell nr Woodbridge Suffolk IP12 2PU. Tel: 01394 460 310 www.britishlardersuffolk.co.uk

THE BILDESTON CROWN 104 High Street, Bildeston, Ipswich, Suffolk IP7 7EB. Telephone: 01449 740510 www.thebildestoncrown.com

AA Restaurant since 2007

the best of Suffolk

the best of eating out Squires Restaurant Bedford Lodge Hotel, Newmarket

Hintlesham Hall Hotel Ipswich

Squires Restaurant has undergone a stunning refurbishment and menu overhaul. The walls are adorned with carefully selected pieces of art mostly conducive of still life which bring the artistic decor into being. The vibrant colour scheme of rich raspberry and subtle lime combined with the amazing food, make for a charismatic ambience, especially during the evening when the lights are dimmed and the lanterns are glowing.

Hintlesham Hall’s award-winning cuisine is not just for formal dining or celebrations. The hall is a stunning venue in which to savour a lighter bite from Harry’s menu, our informal dining menu. The eclectic, mouth-watering selection of dishes can be enjoyed in any of our sumptuous public lounges. Depending on the season, you can choose to eat by a roaring log fire or, in summer, dine alfresco on our extensive terraces and enjoy our magnificent gardens.

This intimate restaurant is perfectly suited for long, leisurely chats over a bottle of choice Sauvignon or Dom Perignon or other pickings from the vineyards of France, Italy and the New World. The expertly selected wine list is enhanced by the eclectic menus and delectable selection of dishes.

Either way, you will be served by our professional, friendly team. Harry’s menu is available from 7.30am to 10.30pm daily so why not pop in for a steak sandwich and a coffee or maybe a plate of pasta and a glass of wine?

Whether it’s business or pleasure, a light lunch with friends or romantic dinner for two, Squires Restaurant is a recipe for success. Staff who aim to please, chefs who deliver and management who know how to manage... the ‘proof is in the pudding’, as they say.

Amazing food Artistic decor Charismatic ambience

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the best of eating out Seckford Hall Hotel Woodbridge Seckford Hall Hotel near Woodbridge has to be one of Suffolk’s premier 4 star hotels, set in the most wonderful setting. With its elegantly laid tables and monastic oak panelling, the main Hotel Restaurant has been awarded two prestigious AA Rosettes in recognition of the high standard of cuisine on offer. A less formal bistro-style experience awaits you in the Club Restaurant, which is housed in a converted Tudor Tithe barn with outdoor seating, offering light lunches and teas by day and a stylish bistro by night. You will find a wide selection of dishes in both restaurants, with an emphasis on seasonal local produce. For a quick business lunch, or to catch up with family and friends, enjoy the cosy atmosphere of the Tudor Bar and Lounge. Available Monday to Saturday lunchtimes, enjoy tasty home cooked food, including sandwiches, bar meals and snacks.

Marco Pierre White’s The Angel Hotel Lavenham As part of Marco Pierre White’s collection of Wheeler’s of St. James’s restaurants, The Angel Hotel boasts a menu full of classic dishes from his extensive repertoire. The restaurant wine list is interesting and caters for all tastes, and the bar offers a good local selection of ales as well as Marco’s very own beer, The Governor and The Governor Cider brewed by JW Lees. All our food is prepared on the premises from fresh ingredients, locally purchased whenever possible. Our chefs consistently produce the high standard of food that has earned us an AA rosette every year since 1995. One menu is served throughout, enabling a choice of dining styles; the bar, the restaurant, the snug (suitable for parties of up to 16) and, weather permitting, the front terrace and the gardens.

Perfect P erfect for special spe occasions and everyday dining

Enjoy the wonderful setting of Seckford Hall Try our fantastic weekday set lunch menu £13.95 two courses or £16.95 three courses (T Tuesdays-Thursdays) Or enjoy A La Carte Dining in the Hotel Restaurantt by evening Our delightful Club Restaurant situated in a magnificent 1550’s T Tudor udor tithe barn serves light lunches by day and bistro style food by night Or why not enjoy the summer weather and dine al fresco in our beautiful gardens To avoid disappointment your table can b be reserved in advance

Enjoy free use of the hotel leisure facilities when booking a table between 2 & 10 adults in the Club Restaurant Tues-Sat Evenings 7.30-9.30pm minimum spend £10pp

Seckford Hall Seckford Seckford Hall Hotel & Restaurant Woodbridge Woodbridge Suffolk Suffolk IP13 6NU Tel: T el: +44(0)1394 385678 Web: W eb: www.seckford.co.uk www.seckford.co.uk

Fax: +44(0)1394 380610 Email: reception@seckford.co.uk reception@seckford.co.uk

Seckford Hall

Market Place, Lavenham, Suffolk CO10 9QZ T: 01787 247 388 info@wheelersangel.com www.marcopierrewhite.org

Hotel & R Restaurant estaurant

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the best of eating out Brudenell Aldeburgh

Thorpeness Hotel Thorpeness

The Brudenell Hotel, located on the shoreline of the stunning beach in Aldeburgh, has outstanding sea views from its AA two rosette restaurant. Relaxed and informal dining throughout the year with a décor inspired by vibrant coastal colours, the Brudenell has one of the best locations for summer dining. Dine on the sea-facing Terrace where you can relax and enjoy the mouth-watering menus produced by the passionate team of chefs who source their produce from Suffolk’s abundance of excellent suppliers, locally caught fish directly from the Aldeburgh fisherman on a daily basis, organic farmers and market gardeners.

The Thorpeness Hotel & Golf Club is situated in a peaceful and idyllic location next to the Meare and with views overlooking the golf course.

For those special occasions, the Avocet room is perfect for private dining with wonderful sea-views and truly delicious food served in the intimate and stylish surroundings.

Fresh and local is the theme here at Thorpeness with a wonderful choice of dining experiences. A relaxed informal covered Patio Bar, perfect for a family get together over a light lunch, alternatively watch the rowing boats pass by on the Meare from our Terrace, just perfect for morning coffee, afternoon tea or at the end of day sipping a chilled glass of white wine watching the sun set. The Club Bar is perfect for dining during the summer, bright and airy but still retains its homely feel with a real log fire to cosy up against during the winter months. The Lakeside Room has wonderful views overlooking the gardens and the Meare and caters for private dining for parties of up to 40 guests.

REDISCOVER… GOOD FOOD GOOD WINE GOOD TIMES …ALL DAY DINING AT THE BRUDENELL

Summer dining by the Meare

JUST A STEP AWAY FROM THE BEACH Join us anytime at the quiet end of the beach and enjoy our unique seaside dining terrace. You’ll find a cocktail of good food, good drink and good times, available all day, for all the family.

Call to book on 01728 452071

The Brudenell Hotel, The Parade, Aldeburgh, Suffolk IP15 5BU Email: info@brudenellhotel.co.uk www.brudenellhotel.co.uk

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Thorpeness Hotel & Golf Club, Lakeside Avenue, Thorpeness, IP16 4NH 01728 452176 info@thorpeness.co.uk www.thorpeness.co.uk

the best of eating out The White Lion Aldeburgh

The Swan Hotel Lavenham

The White Lion’s Bar & Brasserie restaurant is a contemporary and vibrant family friendly restaurant offering simple ‘back to basics’ food with a French twist.

The Swan Hotel sits centrally on the high street in the iconic village of Lavenham, the country’s finest Medieval town.

Freshly prepared dishes and impeccable service makes the Bar & Brasserie very popular with locals and visitors alike. The restaurant has great views of the Aldeburgh beach and the menus focus on locally sourced produce using exciting ingredients that have been ‘hand-picked’ to guarantee the freshest of flavours. Head chef, Jason Shaw, along with his team of dedicated chefs, is passionate about creating mouthwatering dishes that truly reflect the great local produce found in Suffolk, and Jason likes to differentiate his dishes by adding that subtle French twist. With a choice of rooms for private dining, the cosy beach-facing Blue Room seats up to 14 guests and the larger James Cable Room can seat parties of 15 to 90 guests.

If you appreciate fresh, seasonal, locally-sourced food – all enjoyed within exquisite surroundings – you really are spoilt for choice at The Swan Hotel. We have three delightful dining options, our informal Brasserie with superb views out to a secluded garden, the laid-back and relaxed Airmen's Bar, full of Second World War memorabilia, an evocative and inspiring setting, and our elegant AA two Rosette Gallery Restaurant offering a sumptuous sense of occasion with the very best in contemporary cuisine. Our food is prepared with finesse and enthusiasm by our talented and passionate team of chefs led by Head Chef Justin Kett. Justin is known for his love of classical British food which comes through in his exciting seasonal menus, strongly focussed on using quality local ingredients.

GREAT FAMILY DINING IN A UNIQUE SETTING

The Swan at Lavenham

To make an enquiry or a booking please call 01728 452720 or email info@whitelion.co.uk The White Lion, Market Cross Place, Aldeburgh, Suffolk IP15 5BJ www.whitelion.co.uk FOLLOW US HERE

THE SWAN HOTEL, HIGH STREET, LAVENHAM, SUFFOLK, CO10 9QA 01787 247477 www.theswanatlavenham.co.uk info@theswanatlavenham.co.uk

AA ★★★★

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the best of eating out Wentworth Hotel Aldeburgh

Lemon Tree Bistro Framlingham

Overlooking the shingle beach, the Wentworth provides a wonderful setting for morning coffee, an informal lunch or a candlelit dinner.

The award-winning Lemon Tree Bistro offers fresh and carefully prepared classic bistro fare with delicious specials that change daily. Together with well-sourced wines and particularly good Suffolk coffee, the menu is a winning ticket for discerning foodies.

In addition to the restaurant, there are comfortable lounges, a sun terrace and a newly-designed garden, all with sea-views. The cooking style is a combination of classical-modern English with Mediterranean influences. All dishes are freshly prepared from local produce, including seafood from Aldeburgh beach, poultry, lamb from the Alde Valley, game and beef from farms in Norfolk and Suffolk. Owned and managed by the Pritt family since 1920, the hotel has a relaxed and informal ambience, attracting frequent visits by local residents and guests from farther afield.

The restaurant serves everything from light lunches to a full a la carte menu and our talented chefs are happy to alter their dishes to cater for any allergies or intolerances. Children are always welcome and an extensive children's menu is available. The restaurant is spacious, yet intimate and exhibits local artists in changing exhibitions throughout the year. Do make sure to look out for the ever-popular jazz evenings, when the bistro really swings. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am - 2pm and 6pm - 9pm (During the summer holidays we are also open on Monday).

A fine seaside Hotel & Restaurant where you can relax and enjoy great hospitality

The Wentworth Hotel, Aldeburgh, Suffolk Tel: 01728 452312 Fax: 01728 454343 Email: stay@wentworth-aldeburgh.co.uk www.wentworth-aldeburgh.com

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The Lemon Tree Bistro Framlingham Suffolk IP13 9BE 01728 621232 booking@thelemontreebistro.com www.thelemontreebistro.com

the best of eating out Quayside Ipswich

The Galley Woodbridge

Located on the Ipswich Waterfront opposite the historic Old Customs House. Quayside is a modern, spacious restaurant and bar. Open daily from 9am, offering tea, coffee and cake.

The Galley is run by people who are passionate about food and who come from a long tradition of offering hospitality in an informal and relaxed atmosphere.

Lunch is served from midday and you can enjoy a freshly prepared sandwich or a seasonal salad, a two course fixed price luncheon or indulge in the a la carte. Dinner is served from 6.30pm where you can enjoy a hand-cut rump steak burger with garlic fries or the ever popular house fish pie. Then perhaps follow it with one of our delicious homemade desserts like a deep fried apple pie with butterscotch sauce or a baked lemon curd cheesecake with fresh seasonal raspberries.

The restaurant is set in one of the most enviable locations in Woodbridge, on historic Market Hill overlooking the Elizabethan Shire Hall and market square. The menus for lunch and dinner are created by the owner and chef Ugur Vata, daily specials and light lunches are on offer and lobster is now available every day! The selection of ingredients is guided by the availability of local produce and the combination of flavours never fails to delight. European and Modern British cooking styles influence the choices available that are always perfectly cooked, and beautifully presented. Six-dish Mezze and Turkish Delight ice cream are just two of the unique dishes on offer.

Quayside is open till midnight during the week and 1am at the weekend so plenty of time to sample one of our many cocktails!

A private dining area is available at no additional cost for celebratory meals and all the family is made welcome with a special healthy childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s menu. Live jazz evenings, wine samplings and special menu nights are all part of the excitement of dining at The Galley.

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the best of Suffolk

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Interiors

Firefox 8 Twin Door Multi Fuel Stove www.ludlowstoves.co.uk

Situated just north of Ipswich, Ashbocking Joinery is a family-run company which aims to combine traditional workmanship with todays precision computer-aided drawing systems.

Quality and craftsmanship provide the benchmark for success at Ashbocking Joinery Employing qualified and skilled workmen and using environmentally friendly methods in our 2,500sq ft joinery workshop, the company maintains the highest standards. They cater for domestic orders as well as commercial and their experience and traditional woodworking skills mean they undertake specialist jobs including work on listed buildings and churches. A friendly and welcoming company, their door is always open to people who want to discuss their joinery needs - whether they are an architect or someone who just wants a replacement window.

Nothing complements a home more that a hand-crafted door and while replacement windows are a considerable expense to any homeowner Ashbocking Joinery Ltd produces handmade windows that are not only affordable but made to last.

High quality, well designed, precision built products will have an excellent life span and maintain an economical service. The nature of our products ensure that experience and craftsmanship are fully utilized to suit all of our clients requirements.

Manufacturing and fitting quality staircases is another of their specialisms and the company can also supply a variety of purpose-made internal furnishings, ranging from wine racks to reception desks.

Experts in: DOORS WINDOWS STAIRCASES CONSERVATION PROJECTS MOULDINGS AND INTERIORS DOMESTIC FITTINGS COMERCIAL FITTINGS CHURCH INTERIORS

Ashbocking Joinery Ltd, Commercial Barns, Helmingham Road, Askbocking Telephone: 01473 890018 www.ashbockingjoinery.co.uk

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With a recently opened relocated showroom â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Foxwood, a well-established Ipswich business, is cementing its position in the market as well as attracting many new customers.

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Developing a business to its full potential is always an exciting journey and for local stone, tile and sanitaryware suppliers, Foxwood, the opening of the superb 400sq m showroom in Woodbridge Road, Rushmere St Andrew, is the latest milestone. The experience gained over 10 years in the construction industry means that the showroom displays an unmatched selection of stone and tiles in some of the best-quality materials available. Alongside this, as a family firm, it is able to offer incredible value for money and superb customer service.

The showroom is spacious and light, offering a great space in which to display the extensive range of Foxwood’s products. The inspirational room sets and tiled areas demonstrate how the products can be adapted to individual requirements. Indeed it’s possible to use tiling throughout your home and business and knowledgeable staff are on hand to talk you through its creative usage as Foxwood has tiles and stone to suit all locations. Increased space has meant an increase in products and sanitaryware from leading manufacturers Roca and Laufen is also available along with the stylish Bisque

36-38 Woodbridge Road (A1214) Rushmere St Andrew Ipswich IP5 1BH

radiator range. Part of the business strategy is to introduce a broader market to the products and the prominent new showroom on one of the main roads into Ipswich achieves this. The showroom also benefits from ample parking, enabling customers to visit easily and the open nature of the showroom means customers have an opportunity to really appreciate the top-quality products from around the world. Foxwood is keen to stress that it caters for all budgets and carries traditional and contemporary ranges to suit every customer – including glass, stone, ceramic and porcelain designs.

T: 01473 617050

www.foxwoodceramics.co.uk

E: info@foxwoodceramics.co.uk

Deﬁning your lifestyle Mulberry Kitchen Studios have over 35 years experience in crafting bespoke kitchens in every conceivable material and style. Cabinets or dressers, granite or oak, glossy or matt; islands, window seats and range cookers - we've created stunning kitchens that feature them all. With a portfolio as eclectic and diverse as ours, the common thread that unites every Mulberry kitchen is that each is designed, crafted and installed with the utmost care and attention to detail. So whether you dream of entertaining in the luxurious splendour of Italian minimalist chic, or rediscovering the simple pleasures of home baking in your cosy farmhouse kitchen, Mulberry can create exactly the look and feel you seek. Our highly skilled team of designers and installers will work closely with you

to ensure that your kitchen is as beautiful as it is practical, respecting your own tastes and budget as well as reflecting the character of your home. We can take care of everything: restructuring the space by removing or adding walls, carrying out all electrical, gas and plumbing work, painting and decorating, and even supplying soft furnishings. We don't believe that our clients should have to compromise on quality or pay top prices for a bespoke kitchen. So if you haven't got your dream kitchen, you haven't been to see us. Mulberry Kitchen Studios – designed with love, built to last.

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years

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Please visit our website to view some of our kitchens or contact us and we will be happy to discuss your requirements.

212 Mile Cross Lane Norwich, NR6 6SE

31 Newgate, Beccles, Suffolk, Sufffolk, NR34 9QB

T:: 01603 404644 T

T:: 01502 71 711210 T 1210

www.mulberrykitchens.com www.mulberrykitchens.com

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PERSIAN PASSION Sara Barber, owner of the Persian Carpet Studio, has a passion for Persian carpets and rugs. She is a leading authority on their restoration and conservation, offers a unique sourcing service through an extensive network of international contacts and has even spent time living with the nomadic tribes who have made some of the world’s finest examples. The Best of Suffolk found out how it all began. When you meet Sara, surrounded by her treasure trove of carpets and rugs, you immediately sense that she is someone who loves what she does and is someone who knows her subject inside out. This passion has cemented her position as one of the UK’s leading authorities on Persian carpets and her Long Melford showroom as one of the key destinations for anyone wanting one. Like many people her route to her current position was a circuitous one, although one with a consistent thread. While studying at art school Sara discovered a talent for sewing, a talent that initially led her into a career in creating theatrical costumes, from there to a business creating bespoke curtains and then as a specialist carpet repairer working in Sussex. In 1991 she started her own business specialising in the restoration and conservation of antique carpets and rugs and from there the Persian Carpet Studio has grown. Today beside the restoration and conservation work she is a renowned retailer of carpets and rugs and also offers a bespoke manufacturing service for contemporary handmade rugs – ‘hart of the house’. When we met, Sara calculated at that time she had over 800 individual Persian carpets and rugs in stock. She told me “I know each one. All our carpets are handmade, some antique and all based on traditional patterns going back over a hundred years. Every item we stock has been individually chosen and nothing is bought until it has been seen. Over the

years I have built up a great network of contacts who know the quality that I am looking for so therefore I am now fortunate that I get to choose from the best that is available on the market.” “We work extensively with our clients, sometimes directly and sometimes through interior designers, to ensure that we can place the right one. We let customers take items away to ‘live with them’ – it is often important to see a carpet in context to make sure it is the right one for your home. In addition to the stock we hold I can also source unusual or higher priced items using my network of contacts.” Sara has invested time in building those contacts and her knowledge of traditional manufacturing methods and has travelled extensively to achieve this.

“I always believed that getting to the source was important to ensure that I got the best choice and because of this spent a lot of time in Iran. I was fortunate enough to spend some time with the Qashqai, a group of nomadic tribes in the southwest of the country famous for producing handmade rugs. I got to live in the hills with them for a few days seeing at close quarters how they lived and their techniques, it was a fantastic experience and one that I get to share as I occasionally do talks about the trip for charities.” Sara is supported in the business by a team of dedicated and equally skilful colleagues. “Many of my team are part time working mums and together we have developed a unique skillset with restoration, conservation and cleaning work coming to us from all over the world.” “We are currently carrying out some conservation work on a carpet from the library of Althorp House, the family home of Earl Spencer, while working on the carpet it is hard not to think that Princess Diana may have played on it as a child.” Recognising that not everyone’s taste in carpets will be covered by Persian designs Sara has also launched ‘hart of the house’. This bespoke service offers handmade carpets but with any design the client can conceive through a combination of computer designs and traditional skills. All carpets are ethically manufactured under the Fair Trade scheme ‘goodweave’ and can be completed in three months from the design being agreed.

For more information: The Persian Carpet Studio, The Old White Hart, Long Melford, Suffolk CO10 9HX. Tel: 01787 882214 www.persiancarpetstudio.co.uk

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Jayrest Interiors

the Best of British Jayrest Interiors in Hadleigh prides itself on local manufacture, local staff and traditional values. Lynda Keeble talks about her beloved 40-year-old family business.

Jayrest Interiors in Hadleigh is renowned for quality handmade furniture and upholstery. It is 40 years of successful family business and passion that has built up a local reputation that is second to none. Started by Alan James, it is now his children, Lynda Keeble and Tony James, who run the show, creating quality furniture and fabrics at reasonable prices. From humble beginnings in Ipswich the much-loved family venture has been nurtured into larger premises and now has a factory and adjoining showroom at Lady Lane Industrial Estate in Hadleigh. Lynda puts the ongoing success down to passion and reputation. She says: “Being well-known for quality and value is a huge advantage. The business has come on leaps and bounds, with new designs and fabulous fabrics being created all the time. Inspired upholsters,

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machinists and sales staff at Jayrest take pride in every single job that they do, from start to finish.” A huge advantage for customers coming to Jayrest is the fact that the factory is right next door to the showroom. Never again will you have to worry about unpredictable delivery times. Another asset to the business is that Jayrest takes pride in being one of the few remaining British manufacturers still in existence. Lynda comments: “The British furniture trade is still going through a difficult time with many British businesses forced out by cheaper, imported furniture. We are proud that we have found the niche in the market for the people who want the quality and the service that we can offer, as well as keeping the local economy strong and local people in jobs.

Also, there are no high street overheads, and our customers are often surprised by the reasonable prices for wonderful products.” It is the bespoke service and attention to detail that really sets Jayrest apart from some other furniture manufacturers and retailers. Lynda explains: “I love what I do. I understand that the whole thing can be daunting for customers and an expensive mistake if they get it wrong. “I try to make the experience in our showroom an enjoyable one where customers feel comfortable. I get great pleasure in seeing a customer who really doesn’t know how to go about refurbishing a room, then giving then a little guidance to help them walk away with something that they are thrilled with.”

Bed linen, duvets, towels and gifts

Carpets, rugs and ďŹ&#x201A;oor coverings

Curtains, blinds, fabric, wallpaper and paint

Beds, mattresses and bedroom furniture

The independent family run home furnishing store in the heart of Woodbridge 40 Thoroughfare Woodbridge IP12 1AL Telephone: 01394 384300 Email: sales@barretts.co.uk www.barretts.co.uk

Barretts of Woodbridge Family run, and proudly independent The home-furnishing store Barretts of Woodbridge has for more than 40 years been a much-loved landmark, with its position at the heart of the Thoroughfare and distinctive shopfront. It's not just the building that makes Barretts special – it has always been family run, proudly independent and renowned for friendly, expert and personal service. The family custodian is Jill Barrett, daughter of founders Jack and Ann Barrett. We caught up with Jill to find out more about this charming department store.

You say Barretts is ‘family oriented’. What does that mean? Our staff are like a family. With more than 200 years’ experience among them and extremely low staff turnover, the loyalty and trust are second-to-none. My teenage daughters, Vicky and Annie, now work on Saturdays, and even my fiancé, Michael, has got in on the act. Some days we bring our dog Daisy into the shop. She’s a big hit with customers and staff and has her own blog on our website. She even ‘tweets’!

Tell us about the history of Barretts of Woodbridge My parents started the business in May 1969, and there’s a photo of me in the bed department at the grand opening. My parents retired in 1992, and my uncle and aunt, Ray and Paddy Morley took over. They ensured Barretts retained its reputation for delivering a great customer experience in a relaxed environment. They also made sure the business stayed family oriented. Ray and Paddy retired in 2009.

What have you changed since you joined? We recently refurbished the main showroom, and built a large picture window in the side of the store along Brook Street, giving the showroom a light and airy feel. We’ve introduced contemporary highend fashion furniture and furnishings e.g. in my own linens department we now stock designer names such as Orla Kiely, Cath Kidston, and Emma Bridgewater, as well as the classic ranges from Christy, Peter Reed, and Bedeck. We have a new purpose built soft furnishings department, making it easier to browse and choose curtains, blinds, or fabric. In addition, the new hand-made, high quality bespoke upholstery department has already proved popular. With the ability to choose fabric from prestigious textile houses such as Sanderson, Jane Churchill, or Clarke & Clarke, the range is perfect for those seeking to create their own unique look,

What was growing up with Barretts like? We lived in the flat above the shop until I was about 12. I can remember my sister Jane and I playing hide and seek behind the sofas, and we would regularly ‘stress test’ the beds with some jumping when Mum and Dad weren’t looking! I have so many happy childhood memories, and thrilled to be carrying on the family tradition.

and enjoy the most comfortable sofas and chairs. To complete the look you can now even buy high quality paints at Barretts with the full range from Little Greene Paint Company. Whilst we offer good value and great choice, it’s undoubtedly our service that makes us unique. You won’t have to go hunting in a vast and soul-less showroom as our staffing levels ensure we are there when you need us. We don’t operate sales commission bonusing, so no highpressure selling in Barretts. In fact, we’re very happy when people come to browse – expert advice and traditional respect and courtesy come before ‘closing the sale’. We also offer unique services – we believe you should be able to try before you buy with our approval service. This allows customers to take a product home to co-ordinate colour and size before making a final decision. Our free measuring and estimating service for curtains, blinds, and carpets is important for that perfect fit. All these service elements come with no obligation to buy. You seem genuinely enthusiastic about the future. I am! We have a fantastic team led by our manager Paul Vale (recruited by my father prior to his retirement). There’s a relaxed and vibrant atmosphere, which makes it a pleasure to work in Barretts. I feel very proud when I hear customers saying, “This is such a lovely shop!” My aim is to make sure it stays a lovely shop!

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Tucked away, down by the River Deben in Woodbridge, you will find the workshops and showroom of the family-run company Gerald Weir Furniture who, for more than 40 years, have been making exceptional solid wood furniture. Brother and sister, Mark and Louise Weir, and their team of cabinet-makers would welcome you to visit and see the quality for yourself.

GERALD WEIR Quality British Made Furniture For a brochure call 01394 610900 or email info@geraldweir.com Unit 1 Sun Wharf Deben Road Woodbridge Suffolk IP12 1AZ

www.geraldweir.com

Gerald Weir

Suffolk’s original furniture makers The quality of the craftsmanship and the flexibility of the production is what sets Gerald Weir Furniture apart from others. Every piece requires a variety of traditional skills combined with modern technology to make unique furniture that is a pleasure to use every day. Using timbers such as oak, walnut, cherry, mahogany, ash and a variety of painted finishes, each individual piece is made by a single craftsmen and good oldfashioned pride in their workmanship is shared by all. French polished by hand,

whether you are looking for traditional style or simple clean lines, you will find a diverse offering of designs and finishes to suit many different settings. Working with real wood is a joy and everyone who visits the showroom can’t seem to resist running their hands over the timber. We currently have a “pippy” oak table on display and it is so tactile and lovely to touch. Clients also tell us how nice it is to see the workshops and watch the guys at work. It makes the ordering process

Expect an exceptional service where you can browse the showroom and take a tour of the workshops. much more engaging and often people will come to see their pieces through the various stages of production and they can talk to the polishers themselves about their finish requirements. This gives them real satisfaction in ordering something that is not only made locally by people they can meet and talk to, but also something they know is of such quality that it will last a lifetime – and at surprisingly reasonable prices. Buying directly from the manufacturer has many advantages.

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Festivals... Suffolk’s pedigree shines through with a feast of festivals. A second-to-none, year-round programme that boasts an eclectic smorgasbord – everything from theatre to dance, classical music to community arts through to contemporary poetry and medieval archery.

ighTide Festival, the world’s first ‘producing festival’ of new plays, is the perfect place to get started. It provides an exciting platform of new writing, films, panel debates, adult and children workshops, with many of the plays transferring to the National Theatre and the West End. Then, of course, there’s the International Aldeburgh Festival and Proms located on the beautiful Suffolk coast. A world-renowned meeting place for classical music lovers, the festival offers a cornucopia of delights, including superb concerts, master-classes and free performances on Aldeburgh beach. While everyone has Latitude Festival, near Southwold, on their radar, with its international bands and comedians jostling for the ‘top spot’, there are still

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plenty other smaller festivals to enjoy. The Aldeburgh Documentary Festival, directed by actress Diana Quick, is an absolute gem in the Suffolk arts calendar that has been luring inspiring filmmakers to the Suffolk seaside town for more than 16 years; Maritime Ipswich Festival, a salty feasting that celebrates the Waterfront’s remarkable nautical heritage with live traditional bands and dancing, historic visiting vessels and fireworks, and the delectable impressive Aldeburgh Poetry Festival, Europe’s leading contemporary poetry festival, which reaches the places other literary festival dare not tread! The South Heart Walking Festival takes advantage of the beautiful countryside, stretching from Sudbury to Eye. It features walks for a variety of

abilities, meandering from village to village, with varied themes, including photography, poetry and local heritage. The imaginative Suffolk Herring Festival celebrates the importance of herring to the East Anglian coast. The tasty fish may seem an unlikely champion, but it has been crucial to local commercial success, making fortunes for skippers and merchants in the area. The two-day event brings you a taste of this maritime history, with cooking lessons followed by herring barbecues and brunches. Once you’ve polished up your filleting skills, there are net-making and knitting workshops, with children's shows to keep the kids occupied. The next festival will take place in Middleton during October 2013. www.suffolkherringfestival.net Farther inland, Bury Festival takes place in May, brightening the historic town centre with buskers and street theatre. A wide range of cultural events are dotted throughout the month, including exhibitions showcasing the vibrant local arts scene. The famous Bury brewery, Greene King, hosts an outdoor Real Beer and Food Festival, while on rainy days compelling films are shown across the town’s picture houses. It is also an ideal festival for musiclovers, as a diverse range of classical to world music will take centre stage. www.buryfestival.co.uk

To find out more about all the wonderful festivals and events taking place across the county, have a look at visiteastanglia.com

Going that Extra Mile – Taking part in the extracurricular activities offered at independent schools is an excellent way of building up self-confidence – and increasing one’s skills for life. Think back to your schooldays, and chances are that you remember what you did outside the classroom rather than in it. Education for life is about more than passing exams. Through adventure, community service and self-improvement, children become well-equipped to take responsibility for their own lives, show initiative, think dynamically and approach life with an open mind. Suffolk’s independent schools offer today’s students a huge range of extra-curricular activities – and some persuasive reasons for signing up to them.

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Schools

‘‘our son is very happy - he has grown in confidence’’

‘‘we had an amazing season national champions’’

Academic excellence is just one part of an Ipswich School education Why not come along to our Open Morning on Saturday 29th September, 9.30-12 noon, or our Sixth Form Information Evening on Tuesday 6th November 7-9 pm, to find out more!

Circa 1399

I PSWICH S CHOOL Co-Educational Day and Boarding School

Ipswich School, Henley Road, Ipswich, IP1 3SG Tel: 01473 408300 (Senior School) Tel: 01473 281302 (Preparatory School) www.ipswich.suffolk.sch.uk

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Revealing a first class education in Ipswich As the Renaissance artist Michelangelo said: “Every block of stone has a statue inside it, and it is the task of the sculptor to discover it”; finding and developing the talents of pupils is an important part of life at Ipswich School.

ith a proud tradition of education going back over six hundred years, the school has been in its current location on Henley Road opposite Christchurch Park since 1852. Facilities include Great School – a concert hall seating around 400 and housing the school’s new Steinway grand piano – an indoor swimming pool, a large sports hall and 30-acre school playing fields which are within walking distance. There is also a boarding house, with places for up to 50 pupils, where weekly boarding is encouraged alongside full boarding. For younger pupils, the purpose built Preparatory School in Ivry Street provides a supportive environment that encourages the girls and boys to enjoy learning and grow in self-confidence, while benefitting from close proximity to all the facilities of the senior school. The school believes that a strong triangle of collaboration between school, parents and pupils enables success. Headmaster Nicholas Weaver says: “By focusing on a first-class education, we believe that results will follow. In 2011 we had a 100% pass rate at A Level, with 80% of these passes at A*-B grades.

Our GCSE scores are similarly impressive, with 97% of all passes at A*- C grades.” But it’s not just in the classroom where Ipswich School pupils learn. There are a wide range of co-curricular activities that build confidence and team spirit, including world class music, sports coaching from ex-Olympians, and an activities programme which features community service, Combined Cadet Force and the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme. The school’s hockey teams regularly make it through to national finals, and the Chapel Choir performs in cathedrals across the UK and Europe. Nicholas Weaver says there’s no substitute for coming to have a look at the school in action. “For most parents it’s a long time since they’ve been in a secondary school classroom, so a tour of the school when we’re hard at work on a normal day will provide a great insight into what we do. We hope it will help parents to see that we care about their sons and daughters, and that we’ll give them every opportunity to fulfil their potential. Like Michelangelo, we want to reveal the work of art within each one.”

Prep pupils go wild! A new Outdoor Education programme has been introduced at Ipswich Prep School this year. Year 3 pupils spent a day learning Ray Mears-style bushcraft skills, including safely building and lighting fires, and taking part in wide games in tribes, while Year 4 pupils will be spending a night under canvas learning about foraging for food and using knives safely, and Year 5 pupils will soon be learning map reading, tracking and first aid skills to help them deal with a simulated air crash in a forest. Amanda Childs, Head of Ipswich Prep, said: “The aim of all these activities is to help pupils develop a range of life skills including problem solving and working together, and making the most of the great outdoors.”

Music acts inspire The annual Festival of Music in September sees some of the UK’s finest musicians playing live at Ipswich School, complementing the school’s long history of music making and providing audiences with inspirational performances. Educational workshops and masterclasses are an essential part of the varied programme for the Festival, giving young people from Ipswich School and other local schools the opportunity to develop their music skills with the help of top performers. More details can be found on the Ipswich School Festival of Music website: www.ipswichschoolfestival.org.uk We would be delighted to meet you and show you what Ipswich School has to offer. We offer tours of the school on a normal school day. Please contact us to make an appointment. 01473 408300 registrar@ipswich.suffolk.sch.uk www.ipswich.suffolk.sch.uk the best of Suffolk

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FRAMLINGHAM FR RAMLINGHAM C OLLEGE COLLEGE

BRANDESTON B RANDESTON HALL

bo boarding arding & day day sch school ool (13-18)

bo boarding arding & d day ay p prep rep sch school ool (2Â˝-13)

A Quality Education in the East of England

framcollege.co.uk

Framlingham College is a school that is currently in great demand. Catering for both day pupils and boarders, the co-educational school was highly praised in a two recent inspections.

A school ‘where good is no longer good enough’

The 2010 report from the Independent School’s Inspectorate caught the positive mood there by describing the College as ‘a school where good is no longer good enough’, while last year's Ofsted report gave the school's boarding provision and pastoral care a rare classification of 'outstanding'. Much of this momentum is attributed to Headmaster, Paul Taylor, who is determined to deliver a truly rounded education ‘that develops so much more than just the examination candidate’. He is known to be critical of the primacy of academic league tables, describing himself as being ‘passionate about academic standards’, but stressing that ‘the only true measure of academic attainment is in relation to each individual child’s ability’. On this criteria Framlingham can stand shoulder to

shoulder with any school in the country, as confirmed by recently published government figures that placed Framlingham in the top 5% of schools in the country at improving grades between GCSE and A level, and Framlingham's A level results in recent years are among the strongest in the region. The College sits in breathtakingly beautiful surroundings and its excellent facilities ensure that wonderful opportunities – and facilities (including a newly built second astroturf pitch) – exist for pupils in sport, music, drama and outdoor education. This year alone the College was proud to boast 22 Gold Awards in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, and it enjoys an outstanding reputation in sport and the performing arts. The new Headmaster is committed

to protecting this breadth of education against the ‘exam-creep’ of recent years, while fiercely promoting rigorous academic standards. His watchword is quality: ‘Every child deserves quality input from people who care about them across the full scope of school life, at whatever level they may be working’. Framlingham is a fully co-educational day and boarding school that offers full, weekly and flexi-boarding options, and is an ideal choice for local parents looking for high quality education within easy reach. While the College caters for boys and girls aged 13-18, many pupils choose to join its Preparatory School, Brandeston Hall, at 11 (or earlier) before progressing on to the College.

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Woodbridge School

Success can be measured in so many ways and fulfilment comes through so many routes. Boys and girls at Woodbridge School have the chance to find their niche and develop their self confidence across the broadest possible canvas in an environment that encourages achievement wherever it might flourish.

t heart we provide the best possible academic base for our pupils whether they seek places at the top universities, or look instead to music or art college and drama school. Whatever their direction, we seek to give them the ideal foundations on which to make informed decisions for themselves and about the world they will help to mould. The quality and range of extra curricular activities are outstanding. Music and drama exceptional and are central to the lives of many of the pupils. Our musicians perform internationally, with singing and string playing a particular strength, and our actors and actresses perform in the state of the art Seckford Theatre. However our students are just as happy outdoors, whether

competing locally or nationally across the sporting spectrum, learning leadership and life skills as part of the vibrant and immensely popular voluntary Combined Cadet Force and Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, or helping as sports leaders at local primary schools... Every year pupils put charity at the heart of a wide range of activities, raising money for local, national and international causes. From cake sales to fashion shows, from the annual 100-mile bike ride to themed evenings and Balls, the students have helped to raise some £500,000 in the last decade. Woodbridge School’s international exchange programme was the first in the region and has developed over the last ten years; today it is possible for students

to travel the globe on cultural exchange programmes: India, China, Australia, South Africa, Oman, France, Spain, Italy, Estonia, Germany and more… not to mention the sports and music tours. These opportunities, along with all the others on offer, provide our students with such a wide and diverse education that they will be well prepared as adults to deal with tomorrow’s world. Woodbridge offers a number of scholarships and means tested bursaries to pupils who may need financial assistance. These awards are often given in recognition of outstanding academic potential, but are also offered to those with exceptional talent in music, sport, drama, art or chess.

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Stepping up with conﬁdence a smooth transition A smooth transition from primary to secondary education can make all the difference to a child’s future. Get it right and they thrive, get it wrong and they can be lost, with repercussions that can affect their whole lives.

he Royal Hospital School approaches this crucial period with great sensitivity and genuine care, providing a secure and welcoming environment in which children are allowed the time and space to find their feet and grow in confidence. Based in two Junior Houses, one for boys and one for girls, day pupils and boarders quickly settle in and together discover an exciting world of new possibilities and experiences.

Head of Lower School, Joanna Hewitt is completely committed to their welfare “we work very hard to ensure that the day pupils integrate with boarders so that they are part of the House. During these first two years in the Lower School, day pupils and boarders grow and develop together and friendships are forged, many of which will last for life.”

FirM FoundaTionS In this secure atmosphere the children’s natural appetite for knowledge is fostered. Joanna Hewitt enthusiastically explains “this is a unique period in a child’s school life and we place great importance on the foundations laid at this time. During these two years we aim to develop a hunger and motivation for learning as well as teaching values for later life, instilling confidence and assisting every pupil in his or her personal development outside of the classroom.”

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Great emphasis is placed on nurturing individual talents and every child is encouraged to aim high and achieve their full potential. In small classes they enjoy a broad and balanced curriculum. Alongside the core disciplines the pupils are introduced to a wide variety of other subjects, providing them with the best possible choices when they progress to GCSE.

never a dull MoMenT Life at The Royal Hospital School is very full and hard work is balanced by a breath-taking range of opportunities outside the classroom. The new £3.6m Music School is a fantastic facility that can only enhance the school’s established reputation for excellence in teaching and performance. And with over 96 acres of playing fields there is an enormous choice of team and individual sports Lower School pupils join one of four

Take a look For YourSelF teams and internal events generate healthy competition and enthusiastic support, as does the packed fixture list of inter-school matches. Add to this a unique opportunity to learn to sail during the first year, and a wide programme of after-school activities, ranging from Riding, Golf and Scouts to Jewellery Making, Cookery and Sci-Fi, it is easy to see why there is never a dull moment here.

A video, ‘Starting Out’, gives a flavour of life for new pupils at The Royal Hospital School and can be viewed on our website www.royalhospitalschool.org, where parents seeking the perfect transition for their children can also find information about Open Mornings.

A co-educational boarding and day school set in 200 acres of stunning Suffolk countryside. Providing a truly fulfilling education. Whether entry is at 11+ or 13+, personal tutors carefully monitor academic, extra-curricular and social progression and, with this level of individual support, pupils can embrace a wealth of opportunities, reach their full potential and achieve more than they ever dreamed possible.

Open Mornings 6 Oct & 17 Nov

For details contact Admissions on 01473 326210 or admissions@royalhospitalschool.org and visit www.royalhospitalschool.org

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A leading East Anglian co-educational

Boarding & Day Preparatory School “jet-propelled by an inspirational Head” Good Schools Guide

Ipswich High School for Girls aged 3-18

s Excellent academic results s Nursery & Pre-Prep 3 – 7 years s Prep 7 – 13 years with full and weekly boarding from aged 7 s Set in stunning Suffolk countryside s 10+ Scholarships awarded annually: Academic, All-Rounder & Arts s Broad range of extra-curricular activities

AN INDEPENDENT BOARDING & DAY SCHOOL FOR BOYS & GIRLS AGED 3-13

Visit our new website www.obh.co.uk To request a prospectus email admissions@obh.co.uk or call 01449 740252 Brettenham Park, Ipswich, Suffolk IP7 7PH

AN OUTSTANDING EDUCATION IN AN INSPIRATIONAL ENVIRONMENT Saint Felix School is a thriving independent co-educational for ages 1-18. Known for our warm, friendly, family atmosphere, at Saint Felix pupils master the habits of mind they will need for a fulfilling life beyond school.

Choosing the perfect school is a life-forming and life-enhancing decision. You will want to be comfortable and reassured that your choice is the right one for both you and your child. At Ipswich High School for Girls we welcome families throughout the year for tours and taster sessions to experience first hand our dynamic and inspirational environment. As the only all girls’ school in Suffolk, we offer a unique combination of focused study and relaxed confidence, unfettered by gender boundaries. Our girls thrive here. From the idyllic location of our Woodland Pre-Prep to the awe-inspiring facilities of our modern Sixth Form, Ipswich High School offers girls the best learning environment throughout their school careers. But the icing on the cake? As one of the 26 schools of the Girls Day School Trust, we can offer benefits to you and your daughter not just throughout their school life, but for a lifetime. Come and visit: we’re quietly confident that the choice may be a lot easier than you think.

We know what girls are made of!

ife learning for l 01473 780201 for more information call 01502 722175 or email melissa@stfelix.co.uk www.stfelix.co.uk 126

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Live for today, learn for tomorrow Registered Charity No. 306983

Pen and Paintbrush

Artists and authors Continuing to draw inspiration from Suffolk’s landscape, coastline and way of life.

here is definitely something about Suffolk that inspires the creative. Artists and writers just cannot get enough of the place. For art lovers the joy lies in tracking the famous, like Thomas Gainsborough and John Constable, and seeing the fields, woods, rivers and great big skies that inspired their works. But there are other wonderful paintings and other celebrated names to check out. To find out what is where, get hold of a copy of the brilliant Oil Paintings in Public Ownership for Suffolk, recently published by the Public Catalogue Foundation. And even then, you will only be scratching the surface. Alfred Munnings went to school in Framlingham and lived at Dedham. Southwold and its pretty neighbour Walberswick have attracted the likes of Philip Wilson Steer and the architect

and designer Charles Rennie Macintosh (who painted pictures of the local flora). Do not miss out on the wealth of contemporary art either. Maggi Hambling’s giant scallop shell on Aldeburgh beach is not the only modern talking piece. Authors, past and present, are similary drawn to Suffolk. Dickens includes a number of recognisable Suffolk locations in his works. Those queens of crime, Ruth Rendell and P. D. James, both have Suffolk connections. George Ewart Evans, whose books of reminiscences conjure a bygone Suffolk, lived at Needham Market. Adrian Bell, father of Martin (he of the white suit) wrote of rural life from his own Suffolk experiences and had a home at Redisham near Bungay. Kathleen Hale‘s beautifully eccentric Orlando (the Marmalade Cat) A Seaside

Holiday, features the feline family enjoying the delights of a post-war Aldeburgh – thinly-disguised as the fictional Owlbarrow. George Crabbe was born next door to Aldeburgh at vanished Slaughden and is commemorated in the same parish church as the composer Benjamin Britten, who took the poet’s fisherman Peter Grimes and turned him into an opera. John Lydgate, the ‘monk of Bury’, took his surname from the Suffolk village of Lidgate where legend has it he found sanctuary as a young and nameless boy in the latter part of the 14th-century. Lydgate had huge literary pretensions and churned out ballads, hymns and poetry by the yard for his Royal patrons, little of which remains. He was a great admirer of Chaucer. What Chaucer thought of him is unrecorded.

Woodcut by Judy Stevens. www.nbillustration.co.uk

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Holiday accommodation Whether you are looking for a cosy cottage in the countryside with an open fire, a seaside holiday home or a modern, stylish bed and breakfast – there are lots to choose from in Suffolk.

The fact that holiday cottages are selfcatering is the single biggest advantage for many holidaymakers. Most have fullyequipped kitchens with all mod cons, giving you the chance to try local produce at your own pace as well as eating out in some of the county’s great restaurants and eateries. Holiday cottages are ideal for groups and large families – family and friends can get together round the dinner table at night, relax in the garden during afternoons or play board games during the evenings. Many holiday cottages admit pets, so there is no need to confine Toto to kennels while the rest of the family

enjoys a week or two away. Renting a selfcontained holiday cottage means there’s little chance of your dog disturbing other guests and many places have a garden or outside space for pets to enjoy. For those who don’t have children, the extra space that staying in a holiday cottage provides can be a life-saver. Being able to spread out means you can really relax and enjoy your stay. It’s true that there won’t be someone on hand to change your towels or make your bed every day – but why worry? You’re on holiday after all! If you enjoy the outdoors, Suffolk has some alternative campsites worth a visit.

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Camps Heath Barn

VB Camps Heath, Oulton, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR32 5DW Camps Heath Barn is a superior barn conversion set in an idyllic location over looking Suffolk Wildlife Nature Reserve yet close to the Broads and beach. The Barn offers luxury and spacious self catering accommodation with fully equipped kitchen diner, open fires, large sitting areas with a balcony overlooking a nature reserve. Each bedroom and family room has en-suite bathrooms. The main barn sleeps 12 and Marsh Cottage (the annex) sleeps four. Bookings are taken for weekends and full weeks. B&B is also available outside of the main holiday season. Weekend breaks in the main barn start from £650 and full weeks from £850 Marsh Cottage breaks in the annex start from £350 for the week

Contact Jan Overy I/ )) % &*%' *+'.-& B/ %,.&, &), ,,+ :/ ^c[d5XVbeh]ZVi]WVgc#Xd#j` www.campsheathbarn.co.uk

The Best of Suffolk camping... Outney Meadow Bungay

The Orchard Campsite

Alde Valley

If you enjoy being near water look no farther than Outney Meadow for a charming, friendly and unpretentious riverside site on the banks of the River Waveney. Try wild swimming, fishing or canoeing. You can hire canoes from £22 a half-day in high season. Camping from £17.

Set in more than eight acres on the edge of the Suffolk village of Wickham Market, close to the Suffolk Heritage Coast and Rendlesham Forest. The site offers a friendly, family atmosphere in a quiet rural setting with a variety of pitches to suit most tastes. There is seasoned timber and kiln-dried kindling for crackling camp fires – by the barrowload (at an additional cost) with a barbecue, play area and shower block. Free wi-fi over much of the site. Camping is £16 a night.

A peaceful, small, electricity-free zone deep in the heart of the Suffolk countryside. You can pitch a tent or stay in a yurt, bell-tent, tipi or gypsy caravan. There is a communal cooking area with a herb garden. “The perfect antidote to busy lives” – Alde Garden is the ideal place to unwind and get away from it all.

Tel: 01986 892338 www.outneymeadow.co.uk

Tel: 01728 664178 www.aldegarden.co.uk

Tel: 07818 034729 www.orchardcampsite.co.uk

Book a break with Best of Suffolk and choose from over 200 stylish and luxurious holiday cottages by the coast and in the countryside.

WINDMILL LODGES Why not get away from it all at our luxury authentic log cabins set around our private fishing lake in rural Suffolk e lodges are tourist board four or five-star rated and are fully equipped featuring their own private hot tub, guests have use from Easter to October of the covered heated swimming pool.

Do you own a stylish holiday property? For an informal chat contact: alex@bestofsuffolk.co.uk

Tel: 01728 685338 holidays@windmilllodges.co.uk www.windmilllodges.co.uk

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Literary Suffolk Among the many authors who find inspiration in the region is Anthony Horowitz, creator of the popular Alex Rider series for young adults. For him, the turn-off from the A14 and drive through Rendlesham Forest marks the point where “somehow the real world gets left behind.” Living in central London during the week, he retreats to his Suffolk house every weekend to soak up the view of Orford Ness. He thinks that “there is a magnificence about Suffolk that you don’t find anywhere else in the country; a certain vastness of scope to the sky, plus a greyness and hostility about the North Sea.”

George Crabbe

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He is not the first writer to be captivated by East Anglia. Countless famous authors have drawn inspiration from Suffolk’s haunting landscape, including Dodie Smith, Enid Blyton and Charles Dickens. The county’s coastal towns have been particularly prominent in Suffolk’s literary tradition. The most famous of these artistic representations was Benjamin Britten’s dark opera Peter Grimes, based on George Crabbe’s 1810 poem The Borough. Crabbe was a distinguished poet, capturing the colourful yet sinister lives of those who made their living from the sea in Aldeburgh. His protagonist, Grimes, was transformed from a villain to a tragic

Richard Mabey

hero by Britten, who found Suffolk’s tempestuous beaches the ideal setting for a complex psychological drama. Further up the atmospheric shore, George Orwell was inspired by 1930s Southwold, choosing it as the setting for his experimental novel A Clergyman’s Daughter. Based on an attack of amnesia, Orwell also chose to write this early book in vivid theatrical style. American thriller writer Patricia Highsmith settled inland in Earl Soham during the 1960s, whilst she worked on her Tom Ripley series, adding to the region’s collection of literary melancholia.

Just an hour’s drive from the hectic smog of the capital, Suffolk provides an oasis for the creative mind. It is a county with a distinctive sense of character and rich history, whose unique landscape has intimately shaped its literature.

Suffolk hosts three literary festivals a year TWelTh aldeBurgh liTerarY FeSTival This annual festival of literature is organised by the Aldeburgh Book Shop on a weekend at the beginning of March. 01728 452587 www.aldeburghbookshop.co.uk The aldeBurgh PoeTrY FeSTival

However, Suffolk’s natural habitat is not always turbulent and disquieting. It also has a peaceful, restorative power, most profoundly put across by prominent nature writer Richard Mabey. Having penned Flora Britannica in 1996, Mabey was aware of how acutely our environments affect the way we express ourselves. He pointed out that the English have as many words for woodland as the Inuit have for snow. After suffering a bout of depression he moved to Reydon, near the Norfolk border, and gradually recovered, reconnecting with the natural world. Mabey eloquently recorded this experience in the critically acclaimed Nature Cure, published in 2005. Also noteworthy for his love of Suffolk’s wilds was Roger Deakin, author of Waterlog: A Swimmer’s Journey Through Britain. The concept of this book occurred to him while he was swimming in the moat of his Elizabethan house in Mellis. He pioneered the hobby of wild swimming, and still has a large following today.

An annual festival of contempoary poetry is held at the beginning of November and is held around various locations in Aldeburgh town centre. Organised by The Poetry Trust. 01986 835950 www.thepoetrytrust.org WaY WiTh WordS

This enthusiasm for putting nature into words still thrives today as part of East Anglia’s artistic community. Framlinghambased company Full Circle Editions is currently publishing some of the best books in Suffolk, inspired by the area’s heritage. These include Tessa Newcomb and Jason Gathorne-Hardy’s An Artist in the Garden; the charming story of Glenham Hall’s 200 year old walled garden, narrated through poetry and art.

Whilst a number of national literary festivals are organised by Way with Words, they hold a five day literary festival in Southwold every November. 01803 867373 www.waywithwords.co.uk

long MelFord Book FairS Regular monthly book fairs in Long Melford with twenty seven independent book retailers exhibiting. 01284 723512 thebookman@btinternet.com www.missingbookfairs.co.uk

the best of Suffolk

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Ickworth Hotel

The Westleton Crown

Bedford Lodge Hotel

Milsom Hotels & Restaurants

Marco Pierre Whiteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s The Angel Hotel, Lavenham

Hintlesham Hall

The Best of Suffolk is an annual magazine personalised for the best hotels in Suffolk. Each hotel receives their own edition which is positioned in all their bedrooms and lounge areas and available as a complimentary copy to all hotel guests. The magazine is also on sale across the region and distributed to numerous boutique hotels, B&Bs and holiday lets. The Wentworth Hotel

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Ufford Park Woodbridge Hotel, Golf & Spa

Made for Life

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Beautifully hand crafted, bespoke kitchens, cabinets & furniture Showroom & Parking: 497-499 Wherstead Road, Ipswich IP2 8LL (on the A137 just off the A14) Telephone: 01473 680091 • email: sales@orwellsfurniture.co.uk • www.orwellsfurniture.co.uk Aga Centre • Appliance Specialist • Stonemasons • Ironmongery • Paint Library

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